President-elect Donald Trump has publicly condemned New York Judge Juan Merchan’s decision to set his sentencing date for January 10, 2025, in his New York “hush money” case. The sentencing is scheduled just ten days before Trump is set to be inaugurated for his second term, a decision Trump has described as an “illegitimate political attack.”
Trump’s Response
Taking to Truth Social, Trump expressed his outrage, calling the case a “Rigged Charade” and accusing Judge Merchan of partisan bias and constitutional violations. In a series of posts, Trump wrote, “Every Legal Scholar and Pundit…have unequivocally stated that the Manhattan D.A.’s Witch Hunt is a nonexistent case, which is not only barred by the Statute of Limitations but, on the merits, should never have been brought.”
Trump further criticized Merchan, claiming the judge has “so little respect for the Constitution” that he imposed an “illegal gag order” to prevent Trump from publicly defending himself.
“This illegitimate political attack is nothing but a Rigged Charade… If allowed to stand, it would be the end of the Presidency as we know it,” Trump declared.
Background of the Case
The case stems from $130,000 in hush money payments made during Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, who alleged an affair with Trump in 2006. Trump has denied the claims, maintaining that the payments were personal and not related to campaign finances.
In May 2024, Trump was convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to the payments. The case marked the first time in U.S. history that a former president was arrested and charged after leaving office.
Judge Merchan’s Ruling
Judge Merchan rejected a motion to dismiss the case based on Trump’s upcoming presidency. However, he has signaled that he is not inclined to impose prison time. Instead, he suggested that an “unconditional discharge” might be the most viable resolution, citing Trump’s immunity from criminal prosecution once he takes the oath of office.
Merchan’s decision to proceed with the sentencing so close to Trump’s inauguration has been met with criticism from Trump’s legal team and allies, who argue it interferes with the presidential transition process.
Trump’s Additional Allegations
In subsequent posts, Trump accused Merchan of misconduct and claimed the judge has “conflicts and relations” that taint his impartiality. Trump also likened the judge’s actions to those of Special Counsel Jack Smith, whom he called “corrupt” for pursuing other politically charged cases against him.
“Merchan…just cannot let go of this charade,” Trump wrote. “It is time to end the Lawfare once and for all, so we can come together as one Nation and MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Trump’s Team Calls for Focus on Transition
Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump, issued a statement emphasizing the need for the president-elect to continue his transition process without legal distractions. “President Trump must be allowed to execute the vital duties of the presidency, unobstructed by the remains of this or any remnants of the Witch Hunts,” Cheung stated.
Implications for Trump’s Presidency
As the first former president to face felony charges and sentencing after leaving office, Trump’s case sets a historic precedent. While Merchan’s inclination to avoid incarceration may ease immediate concerns, the timing of the sentencing continues to fuel debate about the intersection of legal accountability and political transitions.
Trump’s supporters view the case as politically motivated, while critics argue it demonstrates that no one is above the law. The case adds to the complexities of Trump’s return to the White House, raising questions about how legal and political considerations will shape his presidency.
As January 10 approaches, the spotlight remains on Trump’s legal battles and their potential impact on his presidency. Whether the case concludes with an unconditional discharge or sparks further legal challenges, it underscores the unprecedented nature of Trump’s political and legal journey.
