Trump Sentenced: A Historic Court Appearance

The audio recording from President-elect Donald Trump’s New York City sentencing hearing has been made public, shedding light on the extraordinary situation surrounding the conviction of a former president. Ultimately, Trump received an unconditional discharge, marking a significant moment in U.S. legal history.

Trump’s Sentiment: A Personal Reflection

During the sentencing hearing on Friday morning, which Trump attended virtually, he expressed his discontent with the legal proceedings. “This has been a very terrible experience,” he stated, adding, “I think it’s been a tremendous setback for New York and the New York court system.”

A Critique of the Legal Process

Trump went on to critique the prosecutor’s decisions, asserting that District Attorney Alvin Bragg was reluctant to pursue the case. “This is a case that Alvin Bragg did not want to bring,” Trump claimed, arguing that the situation was mishandled prior to Bragg’s tenure. He suggested that the involvement of a specific attorney, whom he failed to name, was inappropriate and politically charged.

“I think it’s an embarrassment to New York and New York has a lot of problems, but this is a great embarrassment,” Trump reiterated, highlighting his discontent with what he perceives as the politicization of his legal woes.

The Political Context

In an apparent reference to his recent electoral victory, Trump leaned toward Judge Juan Merchan, suggesting that the outcome of the November elections served as a repudiation of the case against him. “It’s been a political witch hunt,” he declared, asserting, “It was done to damage my reputation so that I’d lose the election. And obviously, that didn’t work. And the people of our country got to see this firsthand.”

The Prosecution’s Stance

Assistant District Attorney Josh Steinglass presented a contrasting view, stating that there was “overwhelming evidence to support the jury’s verdict” and criticized Trump for allegedly damaging public perception of the justice system. He claimed that Trump’s public comments during the trial have placed judicial officers “in harm’s way.”

In defense of Trump’s actions, attorney Todd Blanche expressed strong disagreement with the prosecution’s remarks, labeling the government’s perspective as misguided regarding both the legitimacy of the trial and Trump’s responses to it.

Judge’s Perspective on the Extraordinary Case

Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, defended his judicial decisions, stating that sentencing represents one of the most challenging responsibilities for a criminal court judge. He acknowledged the unique circumstances surrounding the case, marked by significant media attention and heightened security. However, he emphasized that the trial itself “was not any more unique or extraordinary” than any other case once the courtroom doors were closed.

Merchan recognized that Trump, like any defendant, enjoys robust legal protections but made clear that no power exists to overturn a jury verdict. “Sir, I wish you Godspeed as you assume the second term in office,” Merchan concluded the hearing with a nod to Trump’s political future.

Outcome of the Hearing

Trump’s sentence of unconditional discharge meant there would be no consequences such as jail time or probation, preserving his ability to appeal the conviction. “After careful analysis, this court determined the only lawful sentence that permits entry of judgment of conviction is an unconditional discharge,” Merchan affirmed, which would address all 34 counts against Trump.

Looking Ahead: Trump’s Appeal

Trump’s legal team confirmed plans to appeal the conviction, setting the stage for further legal battles as he prepares to be sworn in again on January 20 as the 47th president of the United States.

Fox News Digital’s Brooke Singman contributed to this report.