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A New York judge has denied former President Donald Trump’s request to dismiss his conviction related to hush money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels. Trump had argued that a recent Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity should apply to his case, but the judge ruled that the immunity granted for official acts does not extend to the conduct involved in this conviction.
Background of the Case
Trump was convicted on 34 counts of falsifying business records to conceal a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. The payment was intended to prevent Daniels from publicizing her claim of an affair with Trump, which he denies. The conviction has been a significant legal challenge for Trump as he prepares to return to office.
Legal Arguments and Ruling
Trump’s legal team argued that the Supreme Court’s ruling on presidential immunity should protect him from prosecution for actions taken during his presidency. However, the judge determined that the conduct in question was unofficial and not entitled to immunity protections. The ruling emphasized that the falsification of business records to cover up the payment was a personal act, not an official duty.
Implications and Reactions
The decision to uphold the conviction means that Trump will enter office with a felony conviction unless further legal challenges succeed. Trump’s legal team has vowed to continue fighting the verdict, raising issues of potential juror misconduct and other legal arguments. The case remains a source of significant legal and political controversy as Trump navigates his return to the White House.