Donald Trump is the first former U.S. president convicted of felony crimes. A New York jury found him guilty of 34 charges. These charges relate to illegal attempts to influence the 2016 election.

Trump showed no emotion as the verdict was read. From the streets below, cheering was heard. The decision came after more than nine hours of deliberation.

Legal expert Lisa Monaco said, "This is unprecedented." She added, "Convicting a former president sets a new legal precedent." Each of the 34 charges can carry up to four years in prison.

Trump’s Response and Future Plans

After the verdict, Trump called the trial "rigged and disgraceful." He plans a news conference at 11 a.m. ET. Judge Juan M. Merchan set the sentencing for July 11.

The Republican National Convention starts days after the sentencing. Trump's conviction does not bar him from running for president. Legal analyst Alan Dershowitz said, "This will test the voters' loyalty to Trump."

Trump is still eligible to vote. He must stay out of prison in New York to do so. He plans to continue fundraising and campaigning despite the verdict.

The Legal Battle

Trump's conviction is related to hush money payments. The $130,000 payment was to Stormy Daniels, a porn actor. Daniels claimed she had sex with Trump in 2006.

Trump's former lawyer, Michael Cohen, made the payment. It was meant to silence Daniels during the 2016 election. Prosecutors say the payments were disguised as legal expenses.

Legal expert Benjamin Brafman noted, "The falsifying business records is key here." He explained, "It’s about masking the true purpose of the transaction." Trump’s lawyers argued the payments were for legal services.

Financial Impact of The Trump Case

The hush money payment was $130,000. Trump allegedly reimbursed through Cohen in monthly installments. These were recorded as legal expenses.

If convicted on all counts, Trump could face up to 136 years in prison. This is based on 34 charges, each carrying a potential four-year sentence. Legal expert Laurie Levenson said, "The cumulative sentence can be significant."

The cost of legal battles is also substantial. Trump's legal fees could exceed $10 million. This is based on high-profile defense rates of $1,000 per hour. If the case spans 10,000 hours, the fees add up quickly.

Voter Reactions and Election Impact

Trump's conviction might influence voters. Some may see it as proof of his unfitness for office. Others may see him as a victim of political persecution.

Polls show a divided electorate. A recent survey found 45% believe Trump is guilty. Another 40% think the trial was politically motivated. Only 15% remain undecided.

Political analyst Jane Mayer stated, "This verdict polarizes voters further." She added, "It’s uncertain how this will affect the 2024 election."

Sentencing and Future Trials

Sentencing is set for July 11. This is just before the Republican National Convention. Trump's conviction may not be the end of his legal troubles.

Trump faces three other felony indictments. These cases include attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Another case involves mishandling national security secrets.

Legal expert Andrew Weissmann said, "The New York case might be the only one resolved before the election." He explained, "The other cases are still pending." This adds to the significance of the New York verdict.

Jury’s Decision and Legal Proceedings

The jury deliberated for over nine hours. They found Trump guilty on all counts. Prosecutors argued Trump falsified business records to hide the hush money payment.

Michael Cohen testified against Trump. He described the payment plan in detail. Cohen quoted Trump saying, "Just take care of it."

The jury also heard from Stormy Daniels. She described her encounter with Trump. Daniels' testimony was vivid and detailed.

Legal Experts' Views

Legal experts have mixed views on the case. Some believe it was the weakest of the prosecutions against Trump. Others think it sets an important legal precedent.

Attorney Neal Katyal said, "This case shows no one is above the law." He added, "Even a former president can be held accountable." Some critics argue the case was politically motivated.

Harvard Law Professor Laurence Tribe stated, "This verdict is a clear message." He explained, "It’s about upholding the rule of law." The case’s legal implications are significant.

The Political Consequences

The political impact of the verdict is unclear. Trump's supporters may remain loyal. His opponents may use the conviction against him.

The conviction could affect Trump's campaign. He is expected to appeal the verdict. His lawyers argue he did not receive a fair trial.

Legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin said, "The appeal process could be lengthy." He noted, "It might not be resolved before the election." This adds uncertainty to Trump's political future.