One year after being convicted for falsifying business records tied to a hush money scheme, Donald Trump remains locked in a fierce legal battle. On June 11, the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments on Trump’s bid to move the case to federal court. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg opposes, citing the post-conviction timing. Trump’s legal team insists that prosecuting a former and current president should fall under federal jurisdiction. Found guilty on 34 felony counts, Trump was sentenced to an unconditional discharge by Judge Juan Merchan. Bragg responded firmly: “The jury has spoken.” Trump continues to fight the historic conviction.
During his sentencing, Donald Trump declared, “I won the election in a massive landslide,” calling the case a “weaponization of government.” He maintains his innocence, arguing his conviction relied on protected presidential acts, including tweets and official testimony. His defense claims the Supreme Court’s later ruling on presidential immunity would’ve barred key evidence. That argument was rejected by multiple courts. Trump’s former lawyers now hold senior DOJ positions, and he’s since hired Sullivan & Cromwell for his appeal. The DOJ submitted a brief supporting dismissal, citing the immunity ruling. Trump frames his legal battles as politically driven and awaits the public’s verdict on November 5.
