On May 30, 2024, former U.S. President Donald Trump was found guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying business records in a New York court. The charges stemmed from a $130,000 hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential election. His sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2024.
Despite this conviction, Trump, at 77 years old, is still eligible to run for president in the 2024 election. There is no constitutional provision that prevents convicted felons from running for or holding the office of President of the United States. Trump's legal team has indicated plans to appeal the decision, and he remains free on bail pending further legal proceedings.
Political reactions have varied. UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stated he would work with Trump if both were elected to office, emphasizing respect for judicial processes but acknowledging the unprecedented nature of the situation. Meanwhile, Piers Morgan and other public figures voiced strong opinions about the trial and its implications.
Trump's sentencing is closely timed with major political events, including the Republican National Convention and a NATO summit in Washington D.C. Trump and his supporters have described the trial as politically motivated, positioning it as a key issue in his campaign.