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Trump’s legal team had sought a delay in the sentencing until after the 2024 presidential election. With a ruling on Trump’s presidential immunity case expected on September 16, his attorneys may need to appeal that decision, further extending the legal process.
Prosecutors from the office of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated they would defer to the court on whether the delay was appropriate, citing the need for an “orderly appellate litigation” process if Trump chose to appeal. However, they also said they were ready to appear for sentencing on any date the court selected, NBC News reported.
In his letter to both Trump’s attorney, Todd Blanche, and Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Colangelo, Judge Merchan acknowledged the unique nature of the case, calling it “one that stands alone, in a unique place in this Nation’s history.”
Merchan expressed concern over the complexities involved, noting that the current political environment complicates the timing of a sentencing hearing. He explained that delaying the sentencing avoids any perception that the legal process is influencing the upcoming presidential election, where Trump is a leading candidate. Merchan’s ruling stated, “[T]he imposition of sentence will be adjourned to avoid any appearance – however unwarranted – that the proceeding has been affected by or seeks to affect the approaching Presidential election in which the Defendant is a candidate.”
Trump was quick to latch onto the judge’s use of the phrase “if necessary.” He posted on Truth Social, writing, “I greatly appreciate the words ‘if necessary’ being utilized in the Decision, because there should be no ‘if necessary’ – This case should be rightfully terminated, as we prepare for the Most Important Election in the History of our Country.”
Trump has consistently framed the case as a political attack, accusing the Manhattan District Attorney’s office of pursuing a “witch hunt.” In his Truth Social post, Trump reiterated his stance, claiming that “The Manhattan D.A. Witch Hunt has been postponed because everyone realizes that there was NO CASE, I DID NOTHING WRONG! It is a political attack against me by Comrade Kamala Harris and other Radical Left Opponents for purposes of Election Interference.”
The former president also doubled down during a conversation with Fox News, stating, “The case was delayed because everyone realizes there was no case and I did nothing wrong,” adding, “It is a case that should never have been brought.”
Carry 46 rounds concealed? (comfortably)
Judge Merchan’s ruling sets the stage for potential further delays depending on how Trump’s legal arguments regarding presidential immunity unfold. If Merchan dismisses Trump’s immunity claims and proceeds to sentencing, Trump may not have to serve any sentence until the appeals process concludes, which could stretch well beyond the 2024 election. In the event that Trump is re-elected, it’s highly likely his sentence would be suspended while he serves as president.
Politico reported that Trump’s legal team will present their arguments regarding presidential immunity in November, before any final sentencing decision is made.
This New York case is the only one of the four criminal cases against Trump that has gone to trial so far. Other cases, including Special Counsel Jack Smith’s federal investigations and Fulton County, Georgia, District Attorney Fani Willis’ election interference case, are still navigating legal challenges and have not yet reached trial.
Trump’s assertion that the case is politically motivated remains a central part of his defense as he continues his 2024 campaign, leveraging his legal battles to galvanize support among his base.
