On May 30th, 2024, former president Donald Trump was found guilty on 34 charges after pleading innocence, with the charges claiming that he forged Trump Organization records. This was done with the intent to cover up payments used as hush money for an alleged sexual encounter that could have harmed his public reputation and hindered his chances of winning the 2024 presidential election.
The trial took place in New York City for twelve weeks as jurors deliberated on his innocence, before deciding he was guilty. These charges alone could result in up to four years in prison. They could also result in a lesser sentence, probations, or even fines. Trump’s sentencing is set to be on July 11th, 2024. After this conviction, many may see Trump in a different light, but he remains eligible to run in the upcoming election.
The U.S constitution states that, in order to run for President of the United States, one must be 35 years old, be born a U.S citizen, and be a resident in the country for at least 14 years. Some argue that this is in violation of the 14th amendment (section three), which states that one is ineligible to hold a place in office if they were engaged in insurrection after taking an oath as executive officer in support of the constitution (being sworn in). However, in March, in a vote of 5 to 4, the Supreme Court ruled that Trump could not be removed from the election ballet.
After becoming the first U.S president to ever be convicted of a felony, Trump held a press conference on May 31st, 2024, at the Trump Tower. During this he claimed the trial was unfair and biased. He continues on to say he will be appealing the verdict. “We’re going to fight,” said Trump.
During the speech, he implies that America is corrupt under the power of the current U.S. President, Joe Biden, who Trump is running against in the upcoming election.
For now, Trump’s fate remains unclear, as his sentencing has yet to come. As this is a first offense and no one was physically harmed, it is assumed that he will face fines or probation, and it is unlikely that he will be sent to prison.
