Former US President Donald Trump, after being convicted in the hush money trial, stated that the trial was “rigged.” He spoke to the press late on Thursday, saying that his requests for a venue and judge change were denied, leading to an unfair trial. Trump criticized the judge, claiming that he was conflicted and biased.
The US court’s major verdict against Trump might influence the upcoming US elections in November. Speaking from Trump Tower in Manhattan, Trump criticized the judge and New York’s criminal justice system. He argued that the verdict was politically motivated and sought to downplay the allegations.
Trump Defends His Actions
Trump insisted that the payment to Stormy Daniels was a nondisclosure agreement, which he described as legal and common, rather than hush money. He claimed he wanted to testify in his defense but said the judge intended to scrutinize every detail, making it difficult for him to testify.
Trump also violated the gag order that prevented him from publicly criticizing witnesses. He called Michael Cohen, his former lawyer and the key witness in the case, a “sleazebag.”
Cohen had testified that Trump directed him to pay $130,000 to Daniels to keep quiet about an alleged affair during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Allegations of Political Tactics
Trump, who denies all charges, suggested that the trial was a tactic by the Democratic party to disrupt his presidential campaign. Despite his conviction on 34 criminal charges, which carry a maximum sentence of four years, Trump remains defiant. The sentencing is set for July 11, where it will be decided if Trump will serve jail time.
Despite the conviction, Trump’s campaign for the November elections will continue. He is scheduled to accept the Republican nomination at the Republican National Convention on July 15 in Milwaukee. The legal judgment does not prevent him from running for office or serving as president if elected.
Comments