Trump Sentenced in Hush Money Case

Donald Trump maintained his innocence following his sentencing on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, characterizing the proceedings as a political witch hunt and a weaponization of government against him. He received an 'unconditional discharge', meaning he will not face any jail time, fines, or probation, but remains a felon. Trump criticized the investigation as baseless and a waste of resources, arguing it detracted from pressing issues like crime in New York City. He stated that the case should never have been brought, and he affirmed his belief that he did nothing wrong while vowing to appeal the verdict. Despite the conviction, Trump claimed his re-election as proof of public support and called the legal actions against him a charade. His remarks were made during a virtual appearance in a Manhattan courtroom shortly before his inauguration, emphasizing his stance against the charges as politically motivated.