Trump Avoids Jail Time in “Hush-Money” Case, Calls Ruling a “Political Witch Hunt”
In a surprising turn of events just ten days before his second presidential inauguration, President Donald Trump has been sentenced in the ongoing “hush-money” case that has gripped the nation. In a ruling by Judge Juan Merchan, Trump was given an unconditional discharge, meaning no prison time, no probation, and no fines, despite the legal controversy surrounding the case.
Appearing from his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump released a video statement, dressed in a dark suit, where he maintained his innocence and condemned the entire process. Sitting next to his legal team with an American flag in the background, Trump described the case as a “political witch hunt,” designed to tarnish his reputation and prevent him from winning re-election.
“It was done to damage my reputation so that I would lose the election, and, obviously, that didn’t work,” Trump said in the video, reflecting on his victory. He also echoed his sentiments on Truth Social, labeling the case a “despicable charade” aimed at bringing down his presidency.
Trump’s statement continued, asserting, “After spending tens of millions of dollars, wasting over 6 years of obsessive work that should have been spent on protecting New Yorkers from violent, rampant crime that is destroying the City and State… I was given an UNCONDITIONAL DISCHARGE.” He further declared that the case was “baseless” and “illegal,” and accused the Biden administration of working in concert with New York prosecutors to bring forth false charges against him.
Although Trump was not sentenced to jail or required to pay any fines, Judge Merchan’s decision still upholds Trump’s conviction, which has raised questions regarding the case’s long-term impact. The sentencing may not include prison time, but it leaves the door open for Trump to move forward with his political ambitions, including a return to the White House for a second term.
