President-elect Donald Trump has spoken out strongly against a decision by New York Judge Juan Merchan to set a sentencing date for January 10 in his hush money case. The case revolves around allegations that Trump paid $130,000 in 2016 to adult film actress Stormy Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged sexual encounter in 2006. Trump has always denied both the payment and the affair.
On his Truth Social account, Trump called the sentencing date unfair and dangerous, saying that if the decision is not overturned or delayed, it could change the presidency forever. The timing of the sentencing is particularly controversial, as it falls just ten days before Trump is set to return to the White House as president.
Trump accused Judge Merchan of being biased and working against him. He described the case as a “witch hunt” that should have never gone to court. Trump also named several well-known legal experts who, according to him, agree that the case is baseless and should have been dismissed due to the statute of limitations and other legal reasons.
He further criticized Merchan, calling him a “radical partisan” who is ignoring the Constitution. Trump also blasted the judge for issuing a gag order that prevents him from speaking freely about the case. He claimed the gag order is illegal and violates his right to free speech, making him the only political figure in U.S. history who is not allowed to defend himself publicly.
Trump believes the case is not about justice but about politics. He argued that the judge’s actions are part of a broader effort to undermine his presidency and support his political opponents. In one of his posts, Trump accused Judge Merchan of acting dishonestly to keep the case alive. He compared Merchan to another prosecutor, Jack Smith, whom he called corrupt and accused of failing in politically motivated cases against him.
Judge Merchan recently rejected Trump’s request to dismiss the case, but reports suggest he does not plan to impose prison time. According to The Hill, the judge believes an unconditional discharge might be the best solution, especially since Trump will regain presidential immunity when he takes office. This means Trump could potentially avoid jail but still face consequences for his actions.
In May, Trump was convicted of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records. The charges stemmed from the payment to Stormy Daniels, which prosecutors claim was made to protect his 2016 presidential campaign by hiding damaging information. Trump maintains his innocence and continues to deny all claims made by Daniels.
Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, defended the president-elect, saying that Trump should be allowed to focus on the presidential transition without being distracted by ongoing legal issues. Cheung called for an end to what he described as politically motivated investigations targeting Trump.
Trump’s legal troubles are unprecedented in U.S. history. He is the first former president to be arrested and charged after leaving office. Despite this, Trump remains defiant, calling on Americans to unite, put an end to these legal battles, and work together to “Make America Great Again.”
