The sentencing of former President Donald Trump has been rescheduled to September 18, following a Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity. Originally planned for July 11, the delay comes after Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office consented to the extension in response to the new ruling.
Judge Juan Merchan’s order moved the sentencing to allow Trump’s attorneys to file motions influenced by the Supreme Court’s ruling. This ruling grants presidents “absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his conclusive and preclusive constitutional authority” and “presumptive immunity” for all official acts.
Merchan’s statement clarified, “The Court’s decision will be tendered off-calendar on September 6, 2024, and the matter is adjourned to September 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM for the imposition of sentence, if such is still necessary, or other proceedings.” This delay gives Trump’s legal team time to challenge the verdict based on the new legal framework provided by the Supreme Court.
Convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, Trump’s defense argues that certain evidence, including his tweets and public statements, should not have been part of the trial as they fall under “official acts.”
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass stated that while they believe Trump’s arguments lack merit, they do not oppose the request for a motion and the adjournment of sentencing. Trump’s attorneys are set to file their motion by July 10, with a response from prosecutors due by July 24.
This postponement is another twist in the legal battles surrounding Trump, potentially delaying any resolution until after the election cycle, significantly impacting the political landscape.
