Trump Condemns Prosecution as “Disgrace to the System” Before Sentencing in Hush Money Case

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Friday criticized his criminal prosecution as a “disgrace to the system” ahead of being sentenced for concealing hush money payments to a porn star. Trump alleged the case was politically motivated, claiming it was an attempt to tarnish his reputation and influence the election outcome. “It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election, and obviously that didn’t work,” Trump stated in remarks ahead of the court session. “It’s a disgrace to the system.” New York Judge Juan Merchan subsequently sentenced Trump to an unconditional discharge, a ruling that allows a conviction without imposing penalties such as imprisonment or probation. The decision enables Trump to assume the presidency despite becoming the first U.S. president-elect with a felony conviction. “This court has determined that the only lawful sentence permitting entry of a judgment of conviction without encroaching on the highest office of the land is an unconditional discharge,” Judge Merchan declared during the virtual hearing, which Trump attended remotely. The case revolved around payments made to silence allegations of an affair, sparking intense legal and political scrutiny. The unprecedented sentencing has prompted debates about the implications of a felon assuming the presidency, with legal analysts suggesting it may redefine the limits of presidential accountability. Trump’s supporters have dismissed the case as a politically driven attack, while critics argue it highlights the importance of holding public officials to legal standards. As Trump prepares to take office, the case adds a complex layer to an already contentious transition.