A New York judge on Monday rejected President-elect Donald Trump’s plea to postpone his sentencing in the hush money case, confirming it will proceed as scheduled this Friday.
Judge Juan Merchan dismissed the argument by Trump’s attorneys that his recent election victory warranted a delay, ruling that the sentencing should go ahead barring an appeal to a higher court.
Merchan’s two-page decision stated, “Defendant’s motion for a stay of these proceedings, including the sentencing hearing scheduled for January 10, 2025, is hereby DENIED.”
Trump, convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election, has the option to appear at the sentencing in person or virtually. Despite the conviction, Merchan indicated he would not impose jail time.
Trump’s legal team had sought dismissal of the case, citing the Supreme Court’s ruling granting former presidents broad immunity for official acts. Merchan, however, ruled that immunity would only apply after Trump’s inauguration on January 20.
The decision means Trump, now certified as the 2024 election winner, will enter the White House as a convicted felon, though he is expected to receive an unconditional discharge, avoiding jail time or any conditions.
