Donald Trump faced a historic moment as a Manhattan jury found him guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. In a subsequent interview with Fox News, Trump expressed his acceptance of potential jail time or house arrest, stating, “I’m okay with it.” He suggested that his sentencing would be a “breaking point” for the public.
The verdict in the hush money trial was reached after nearly nine and a half hours of deliberation. Trump criticized the trial as a “disgrace” and labelled it as “rigged” due to what he perceived as a biased judge. However, during his interview on Sunday, he appeared more composed.
Reflecting on his potential punishments, Trump recounted a conversation with one of his lawyers, asserting his refusal to beg for leniency. He speculated on the public’s reaction, suggesting that his sentencing might be difficult for them to accept, reaching a “breaking point” at some stage.
Judge Juan Merchan scheduled Trump’s sentencing for July 11, just before the Republican National Convention. Trump could face probation or up to 4 years in state prison for each count, with a maximum of 20 years.
Trump highlighted his fight for the Constitution but acknowledged the toll the verdict took on his family, particularly his wife, Melania, whom he described as finding it challenging amidst media scrutiny.