Presidential Immunity Controversy: Trump's Hush Money Case
Justice Juan Merchan delays ruling on whether Trump's conviction in a criminal case related to hush money should be dismissed on immunity grounds. The prosecution now has until November 19 to decide on their approach following Trump's election victory. The case involves Trump's 2016 election and allegations of falsifying business records.
Justice Juan Merchan has delayed making a decision on whether to dismiss former President Donald Trump's criminal conviction on the grounds of presidential immunity. This postponement allows Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office until November 19 to strategize their next steps in light of Trump's recent election victory.
Trump, convicted in May on 34 felony counts for falsifying business records related to hush money payments, could see his November 26 sentencing deferred. Trump's legal team argues the case must be dismissed to avoid interfering with his presidential duties. Prosecutor Matthew Colangelo highlighted the challenges between proceeding with a criminal case and safeguarding the presidency.
Amid ongoing legal battles, Trump's campaign frames these cases as politically driven efforts to hinder his presidential run. With immunity debates raging, Trump's defense points to prosecutorial evidence indicating unofficial conduct shown during his presidency, while the prosecution insists it does not affect their case.
(With inputs from agencies.)