Experts are speculating about Donald Trump’s future after he became the first former US President to be convicted in a criminal court. While his lawyers launch an appeal that could potentially last several months, legal experts estimate what may happen during the former President’s sentencing hearing in July.
While a prison sentence is possible, analysts believe a fine and a probationary sentence are much more likely. The judge will account for Mr. Trump’s age and lack of previous convictions, as well as practicalities surrounding the imprisonment of an individual with Secret Service protection, and opt for a non-custodial sentence, attorneys say.
The 34-count conviction does not prohibit Trump from running for President or taking up residence in the Oval Office. If he becomes President again, he will not be able to pardon himself because that right is only available in federal cases, and Mr. Trump was convicted in a state court.
“I want to campaign,” the former President told reporters immediately after his conviction, and “Trump Force 47” was initiated. This new program gathers volunteers across all 50 states to conduct targeted door-to-door mobilizations. Trump’s team is focusing on local drives to build upon the surge of $20 to $50 donations that raised millions in the hours following the jury’s guilty verdict.
Despite his conviction, Mr. Trump will be permitted to vote for himself in November because he is in Florida, where felons can vote if they committed a crime outside the state and in a state that permits convicts to vote. In New York, those found guilty of an offense can vote if they are on parole or probation or have completed their sentence.
The grounds for appeal will likely center on Stormy Daniels’ testimony, which attorneys will argue was excessively detailed and, therefore, capable of prejudicing the jury.
In response to the ruling, Mr. Trump said he would continue regardless and that the only verdict that matters is that of the American people on November 5.
