Justice Juan M. Merchan’s decision regarding Donald J. Trump has the potential to change American history, as he has treated the former president like any other defendant in the past.
In May, Donald J. Trump’s criminal trial concluded, with one of his lawyers advocating for unique jury instructions that would have made it more challenging to convict him. The lawyer argued that the first prosecution of a former American president was a significant case requiring special rules. However, the judge, Justice Juan M. Merchan, declined the request, stating that he would not alter the law for this case.
Justice Merchan has approached this landmark case like any other he has presided over. Despite Mr. Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts related to a sex scandal, the judge now faces a crucial decision: whether to proceed with Mr. Trump’s sentencing on Sept. 18 or honor Mr. Trump’s request to postpone it until after Election Day.
Having already granted one delay, Justice Merchan’s upcoming decision will occur amidst a presidential campaign where Mr. Trump is running against Vice President Kamala Harris. This decision will have far-reaching implications, potentially impacting the election and shaping American politics for years to come. It is likely to invite partisan criticism at a time when the public’s trust in the judiciary has been tested by recent Supreme Court rulings and revelations of political affiliations among some justices.
Source: The NY Times
