Former President Donald Trump’s sentencing has been postponed to September 18, a decision made by Judge Juan Merchan in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling.
Originally set for July 11, just before the Republican National Convention, the sentencing was delayed after Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office agreed to the extension.
The Supreme Court’s decision, which grants former presidents immunity from prosecution for official acts taken while in office, has significantly influenced this delay.
The ruling states that presidents are entitled to “absolute immunity from criminal prosecution for actions within his conclusive and preclusive constitutional authority” and “presumptive immunity” for all official acts.
Judge Merchan’s order stated, “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 provides time for Trump’s legal team to file a motion to set aside the verdict based on the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records. His attorneys argue that certain evidence introduced during the trial, including tweets and public addresses, should not have been considered as they pertain to “official acts.”
Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass indicated that while the prosecution believes Trump’s arguments lack merit, they do not oppose his request to file a motion and delay the sentencing. According to Merchan’s order, Trump’s legal team will submit their motion by July 10, with prosecutors responding by July 24.
This development further complicates the legal proceedings against Trump, potentially pushing final decisions well into the election season.