The Supreme Court has denied President-elect Donald Trump’s request to halt his sentencing in a New York business records case, which is set for January 10. This decision means Trump will be labeled a "convicted felon" at his inauguration, as Justices Alito, Thomas, Gorsuch, and Kavanaugh would have supported Trump's application, while Justice Barrett sided with the liberal justices. Legal experts believe the charges against Trump are unfounded.
The Supreme Court stated two reasons for its refusal: the evidentiary issues raised could be handled in the normal appeal process, and the impact of the sentencing on Trump's responsibilities as president-elect is minimal, since the trial court plans to impose a sentence of "unconditional discharge" after a brief virtual hearing.
After the ruling, Trump expressed gratitude towards the Supreme Court but maintained his innocence, stating he would appeal the case. He argued that sentencing him before he takes office could impose restrictions on his duties, which he views as unconstitutional under presidential immunity.
Judge Juan Merchan, who is set to deliver the sentence, has indicated that he is unlikely to impose jail time. Trump has claimed that the judge improperly allowed certain evidence and failed to recognize presidential-elect immunity, asking the Supreme Court to address these concerns and grant a stay due to his appeal on the immunity issue. Trump was found guilty in May on multiple felony counts related to payments to an adult film actress. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg urged the Supreme Court to allow state courts to continue the proceedings, warning that delaying sentencing could complicate matters once Trump is inaugurated.
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