Trump's Hush Money Case Stays in State Court, Judge Rules

A federal judge has denied Donald Trump's request to move the New York hush money case to federal court, finding that the payments were "private, unofficial acts" and not within the scope of his presidential powers.

Uncovering the Truth: Trump's Hush Money Scandal Remains in State Jurisdiction

Upheld State Jurisdiction

In a decisive ruling, Judge Alvin Hellerstein rejected Trump's long-shot bid to transfer the case to federal court. The judge maintained his previous conclusion that the hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels were private, unofficial acts that fell outside the bounds of executive authority. Hellerstein stated, "Nothing in the Supreme Court's opinion affects my previous conclusion that the hush money payments were private, unofficial acts, outside the bounds of executive authority." This ruling reinforces the state court's jurisdiction over the matter.

Denying Bias Claims

Trump had also claimed that the case should be moved to federal court due to alleged bias from Judge Juan Merchan, who presided over the trial. However, Hellerstein firmly rejected this argument, stating that it would be "highly improper" for the federal court to evaluate issues of bias, unfairness, or error in the state trial. Hellerstein emphasized that the proper recourse for Trump would be to appeal the conviction through the state courts.

Rejecting Sentencing Delay

In addition to the transfer request, Trump's attorneys had sought to postpone his sentencing, currently set for September 18. Hellerstein denied this request, stating that it would be improper for the federal court to interfere with the state court's scheduling decisions.

Awaiting Sentencing Decision

Trump has separately requested that Judge Merchan delay the sentencing until after the election. Prosecutors have not opposed this request, and a decision from the state court is expected in the coming days.

Challenging the Conviction

Trump has also argued in a motion to Judge Merchan that his conviction should be overturned in light of the Supreme Court's recent decision, which found that evidence of official acts cannot be used at trial. His attorneys have argued that the jury should not have been allowed to hear the testimony of former White House aide Hope Hicks or see social media posts Trump made while in office. Merchan has stated that he will rule on this motion on September 16.

Potential Sentencing Outcome

If the conviction stands, Trump could face up to four years in prison when he is sentenced. He was convicted earlier this year of 34 counts of falsifying business records related to the hush money payments.This latest ruling underscores the state court's authority over the hush money case, rejecting Trump's efforts to move the proceedings to the federal level. As the legal battle continues, the outcome of the sentencing and the potential appeal could have significant implications for the former president.