A New York jury on Thursday found former President Donald Trump guilty of all 34 felony charges in his hush money trial. The $130,000 payment was made to p0rn star Stormy Daniels by his then-personal lawyer Michael Cohen before the 2016 election.
Trump, 77, is the first U.S. president to be convicted of a crime. He faces three other criminal cases before the 2024 presidential election in November.
The judge gave a “rain metaphor” in his verbal — rather than written — instructions to the jury.
On Thursday, jurors asked the judge to explain the “rain metaphor” instructions again.
“You can infer it’s raining by seeing a wet umbrella even if you don’t see actual rain,” he said. Suggesting members of the jury were weighing Trump’s intent.
The judge set a July 11 date for Trump’s sentencing hearing — 4 days before the GOP convention.
The Biden campaign celebrated the verdict by referring to Trump as a “convicted felon.” The White House denies coordinating the criminal cases against Biden’s opponent.
Trump is expected to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Outside the courthouse, Trump said “The real verdict is gonna be November 5.”
Reporters were left to wonder if the conviction will serve as a badge of honor to his voters, or an obstacle in his reelection bid.
“This outrageous outcome will only intensify the Trump base both politically and regarding fundraising. Sad day for our country,” said Brian Ballard, a prominent Republican lobbyist.
“This was so over the top it will continue to push people to his corner,” added Sean Spicer, Trump’s first White House press secretary.
Donations to Trump’s reelection campaign surged on Thursday evening. Trump supporters say they will make history by voting for a convicted felon in November.
Sorry to dash Trump-haters "orange jumpsuit" fantasies, but Trump won't be taken into custody; or go to Rykers, even if he's slapped with a prison term. He'll be free on BAIL PENDING APPEAL. Sentencing won't be enforced until all NY appeals are exhausted — well past the election
— Paul Sperry (@paulsperry_) May 30, 2024
Astonishing – Donald Trump:
The first ex-president in history to be convicted of criminal offence – and guilty on all 34 counts
Also the first president to be impeached twice
And possibly – and probably – re-elected in November….
Extraordinary moment in US history— Jon Sopel (@jonsopel) May 30, 2024
If you weren’t pissed off when Michael Cohen was convicted for paying hush money to Stormy Daniels you CANNOT be pissed off for Donald Trump being convicted for ordering him to do it. Period. Sit down.
— Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) May 31, 2024
