A New York judge has ruled that the conviction related to incoming President Donald Trump’s hush money payments will remain valid. Trump sought to dismiss the case following a US Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity.
In July, the Supreme Court ruled that presidents have immunity from criminal prosecution for “official acts” during their term. However, New York Judge Juan Merchan stated that the charges in the hush money case concerned “unofficial conduct,” invalidating Trump’s claim to immunity.
A spokesperson for Trump argued that the judgment contradicts the Supreme Court’s earlier decision. The case involves payments made by former lawyer Michael Cohen to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to prevent a scandal before the 2016 election, which Trump won.
Trump and Daniels allegedly had an affair in 2006. Daniels intended to reveal damaging details about their relationship, which Trump allegedly sought to suppress with a $130,000 payment, falsely recorded as legal expenses.
The New York court ruled this as falsifying business records in May. Trump has consistently denied wrongdoing.
He may still appeal the decision denying him immunity. If the conviction stands, Trump will be the first convicted criminal to take office in the White House during his inauguration in January.
Source: NOS