A New York jury has found former U.S. President Donald Trump guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. 

The charges stem from an effort to conceal a hush money payment made to a porn star ahead of the 2016 presidential election. 

Many are left wondering what the future holds for Trump and his presidential campaign.

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• Donald Trump was found guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.

• Sentencing is set for July 11, with potential punishments including fines, probation, or imprisonment.

• The conviction does not prevent Trump from running for president in 2024, as the appeals process will likely continue for months or years.

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Trump’s Conviction: The Legal and Political Implications

The Sentencing Phase

With the jury dismissed, the case now moves to the sentencing phase, which will be largely controlled by Judge Juan Merchan. 

The sentencing date has been set for July 11 at 10 a.m. ET, and the parties in the case have been ordered to file motions by June 13. 

During this time, both sides will present arguments in favor of their preferred punishment through sentencing memos and other court filings.

Trump will also likely be interviewed by a probation officer for a presentence report, which will include sentencing recommendations for the judge to consider. 

While Trump’s attorneys may attempt to push the sentencing date later, possibly even after the Nov. 5 presidential election, it is unlikely that Judge Merchan will grant such a delay without a compelling reason.

Potential Punishments

The charges against Trump are Class E felonies, the least serious category under New York law. 

Each count carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison. 

Trump’s sentence could include fines, restitution, probation, or other conditions, and imprisonment cannot be ruled out.

Judge Merchan has broad discretion in determining Trump’s sentence and can consider various factors, including Trump’s age, lack of prior criminal record, and conduct during the trial. 

Trump’s public attacks on the judge and accusations of political bias throughout the trial may not work in his favor.

A Lesser Sentence Likely

Despite the serious nature of the charges, experts believe it is highly unlikely that Trump will face any jail time as a result of the verdict. 

A probation sentence would be considered normal for the average defendant convicted of the same crime. 

Judge Merchan has expressed reluctance to imprison the former president, acknowledging the logistics and broader implications of such a decision.

While a jail sentence is plausible, the judge may opt for a sentence of house arrest due to the immense challenges of incarcerating a former president. 

The judge views this case as going to the heart of our democracy and considers it very serious.

Impact on Trump’s Presidential Run

Trump’s legal battle will not prevent him from running for president, as the Constitution does not bar felons from holding the highest office. 

However, the appeal process following his sentencing could take months or even years, meaning that even if Trump eventually overturns his conviction, it will not happen before Election Day.

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