Trump Sentenced in Hush Money Case

Donald Trump has been officially sentenced in a New York court for 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made during the 2016 election campaign, but he will not face jail time or fines, receiving instead an 'unconditional discharge' from Judge Juan Merchan. This ruling formalizes Trump's conviction, making him the first president-elect in U.S. history to be a convicted felon. The judge stated that the sentence was the only lawful option available after Trump's election victory, despite the complexities that could have led to a harsher punishment. Trump's absence from the courtroom during the sentencing contrasts with his previous attendance at trial, where he often appeared disengaged. The Supreme Court's recent decision to allow the sentencing to proceed without delays has been met with criticism, as it indicates a significant legal precedent for a former president. Trump now returns to the White House amid controversy, with the shadow of his felony convictions looming over his administration.