Trump Unconditionally Discharged in Hush Money Case

Donald Trump received an unconditional discharge in a New York hush money case, where he was previously convicted of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records related to payments made to silence an adult film actress during the 2016 election. Judge Juan Merchan emphasized that while the charges were serious, Trump's status as president afforded him legal protections that ultimately led to the absence of jail time, probation, or fines. Prosecutors criticized Trump for showing no remorse and undermining public trust in the judicial system, while Trump's defense labeled the case as politically motivated. The unconditional discharge means the conviction remains on record but entails no further penalties. Trump has characterized the case as a conspiracy to damage his reputation and hinder his presidential campaign. He is set to be inaugurated for a second term on January 20, 2025.