In a significant judicial decision, New York Judge Juan Merchan has postponed the sentencing of former US President Donald Trump in his hush money criminal case to November 26, three weeks after the US presidential election. The delay was requested by Trump’s attorneys in August to prepare for a potential appeal and to mitigate any “politically prejudicial” effects on the election. The prosecution had opted not to oppose this request.
Judge Merchan acknowledged the uniqueness of the case, stating, “The matter is one that stands alone, in a unique place in this Nation’s history.” He emphasized the necessity for the court to remain “fair, impartial, and apolitical” and to avoid any perception of bias that might favor or disadvantage any political party or candidate. The judge also highlighted that rescheduling the sentencing just 41 days post-election would further remove potential political implications.
The court is set to rule on a critical motion by Trump’s defense on November 12, aiming to set aside the jury’s guilty verdict. This move leans on the US Supreme Court’s recent ruling that former presidents have extensive immunity in their official acts. However, a federal judge recently ruled that this immunity does not pertain to Trump’s hush money case.
Earlier this year, Trump was convicted on May 30 for falsifying business records to obscure payments made by his former attorney Michael Cohen to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Besides this case, Trump is embroiled in several other legal battles. He faces federal charges for retaining classified documents post-presidency, an indictment for alleged interference in the 2020 presidential election, and a separate indictment over alleged interference in Georgia’s presidential vote.
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