The guilty verdict handed down to former President Donald Trump on all 34 counts marks a historic moment in American politics. Trump becomes the first former US president to be convicted of felony crimes, found guilty of falsifying documents to cover up a payment intended to silence porn star Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election.
Following two days of deliberations, the 12-member jury unanimously reached a verdict, finding Trump guilty on all counts. The decision was met with significant attention as it thrusts the US into uncharted territory, particularly with the upcoming presidential election looming.
While Trump faces a maximum sentence of four years in prison, his legal team is expected to appeal the verdict. Trump himself maintains his innocence, declaring outside the courtroom, "We didn't do a thing wrong, I am a very innocent man. We'll keep fighting. We'll fight to the end, and we'll win."
The guilty verdict has political ramifications, potentially impacting the November 5 presidential election where Trump seeks to reclaim the White House from Democratic President Joe Biden. Opinion polls suggest a close race between the two candidates, and the guilty verdict could influence independent and Republican voters.
The immediate aftermath of the verdict saw a surge in financial support for Trump, with notable donors pledging significant contributions to his campaign. Trump's fundraising website experienced temporary issues as supporters rushed to donate in response to the verdict.
Despite the legal setback, Trump's loyal supporters remain steadfast, expressing their support through financial contributions and vocal condemnation of the verdict. Meanwhile, Trump's opponents view the verdict as a significant moment in holding political leaders accountable for their actions.
The trial itself featured explicit testimony from Stormy Daniels regarding her alleged sexual encounter with Trump in 2006. While Trump denies the allegations, the jury's guilty verdict underscores the gravity of the charges he faced.
