Former President Donald Trump has been found guilty of 34 felony charges for falsifying business records in an attempt to conceal damaging information from voters before the 2016 election. The jury, consisting of seven men and five women, deliberated for nearly 12 hours before delivering the verdict. While sentencing is pending, Trump could face fines, probation, or even prison time.
The charges stem from hush money payments made to Playboy model Karen McDougal and adult film star Stormy Daniels, who alleged affairs with Trump and were paid to remain silent before the election. Trump allegedly reimbursed his former fixer, Michael Cohen, for these payments, leading to the charges of falsifying business records.
During the trial, Trump was reprimanded by Judge Juan Merchan and fined for violating a gag order that prohibited him from attacking court employees. Despite the verdict, Trump remains eligible to run for the presidency.
The trial is the first of four criminal cases against Trump and may be the only one decided before the November election. The case has sparked controversy and divided opinions, with Trump’s team likely to appeal the conviction. The sentencing is scheduled for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention, where Trump is expected to secure the nomination despite being a convicted felon.
The verdict has elicited strong reactions, with Trump denouncing the trial as rigged and blaming President Joe Biden. Meanwhile, the Biden campaign issued a statement emphasizing the importance of upholding the law and democracy. The outcome of the trial has significant implications for Trump’s political future and the upcoming election.