Judge Denies Trump’s Motion to Dismiss Hush Money Convictions on Immunity Grounds

A Manhattan judge has denied Donald Trump’s motion to dismiss his 34 felony convictions for falsifying business records based on immunity claims. Judge Juan Merchan’s ruling addressed Trump’s arguments citing the Supreme Court’s recent decision granting some presidential immunity. Trump’s convictions stem from a jury’s May verdict, which found him guilty of falsifying records related to an alleged hush money payment made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. Trump has denied any wrongdoing. Following the ruling, Trump transition spokesman Steven Chung released a statement criticizing the decision, calling it a “direct violation” of the Supreme Court’s immunity ruling and labeling the case part of a political “witch hunt” by the Manhattan District Attorney. The immunity debate emerged after the Supreme Court’s summer ruling, which offered protections for presidential actions but did not absolve personal conduct. Judge Merchan’s decision reinforces that Trump’s business-related actions during his campaign do not fall under immunity protections. This ruling marks another legal setback for the former president as he continues to contest his convictions. Trump and his legal team are expected to pursue further appeals leading up to his sentencing.