Despite the New York jury’s guilty verdict, former President Donald Trump can still run for the presidency, even if he faces a highly unlikely prison sentence.
Trump, found guilty on all counts in the NY v. Trump case, remains defiant. “This was a rigged, disgraceful trial. The real verdict is going to be Nov. 5 by the people,” Trump declared outside the courtroom on Thursday.
From the outset, this trial was a sham, orchestrated by a biased judge who had no business presiding over the case. But this fight is far from over. Trump remains determined to defend the Constitution and his right to run for office.
Legally, Trump’s criminal record doesn’t bar him from running for the White House. The Constitution only requires presidential candidates to be natural-born citizens and at least 35 years old.
While Trump hasn’t been sentenced yet, the prospect of prison time is slim. Considering his age, first-time offender status, and the nature of the charges, it’s unlikely he’ll see the inside of a cell. But even if he did, history shows it wouldn’t be unprecedented. Eugene V. Debs ran for president from federal prison in 1920, after being convicted of sedition.
Trump might face home confinement during his campaign, which would limit his travel but not his influence. Fundraisers from Mar-a-Lago or his other residences could keep his campaign thriving.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has stated that Rikers Island is prepared for Trump if needed. The logistics of such a scenario, including Secret Service coordination, remain unclear but would certainly be unprecedented.
Trump is still entitled to Secret Service protection regardless of a potential prison sentence. This means the federal law enforcement agency would need to coordinate with the department of corrections to ensure his security, creating an unprecedented logistical challenge.
Before any sentencing, a pre-sentencing report will be compiled, detailing Trump’s background and recommending a sentence. However, Judge Juan Merchan is not obligated to follow these recommendations.
Trump’s support base remains steadfast. Recent polls show him leading President Biden in key battleground states, and his rallies continue to draw massive crowds, including a significant event in New Jersey over Mother’s Day weekend and another in the Bronx.
In short, this politically motivated trial won’t derail Trump’s campaign. If anything, it’s fueling his supporters’ resolve. Come November 5th, the American people will deliver the real verdict.