The judge overseeing Donald Trump’s New York criminal trial has approved a delay in his sentencing after his lawyers requested more time to argue the impact of a recent Supreme Court decision on immunity. Trump’s sentencing, originally set for July 11, will now take place at the earliest on September 18. This delay means Trump will not be sentenced before his potential nomination for president at the Republican National Convention and less than two months before the presidential election.
Trump’s legal team has moved quickly to use the Supreme Court ruling to argue for a new trial, claiming that evidence of his “official acts” should not have been used in his previous trial. The Manhattan jury found Trump guilty of falsified business records related to a payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels. The prosecutors have indicated they believe the attempt to toss the verdict is “without merit.”
The judge will now have to determine whether evidence related to Trump’s official acts, such as testimony from former aide Hope Hicks, should be considered in the case. If ruled inadmissible, a new trial may be required. Trump’s team could face challenges in convincing the judge, who previously dismissed their attempt to have the case thrown out on immunity grounds. The judge will issue a ruling related to the immunity decision on September 6.
Trump faces potential sentences including prison time, probation, and a fine. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who brought the case against Trump, has not yet indicated what sentence he will seek.
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