
President-elect Donald Trump criticized Judge Juan M. Merchan over his handling of the hush-money case that has led to Trump’s January 10 sentencing. Trump argued the case exemplifies judicial corruption in New York and accused Merchan of political bias.
Merchan, who set the sentencing date just days before Trump’s inauguration, indicated that jail time would not be pursued. While acknowledging that incarceration is legally possible, Merchan aligned with prosecutors in stating it is no longer a practicable recommendation. Trump dismissed the entire case as a politically motivated sham.
🚨BREAKING: Trump responds to Judge Merchan’s decision requiring him to appear for sentencing on January 10th. pic.twitter.com/k7chfRqlxP
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 4, 2025
In a social media post, Trump described the charges as fabricated, stating, “It is a fake, made up charge by a corrupt judge who is just doing the work of the Biden/Harris Injustice Department.” Trump also criticized the gag order imposed by Merchan, claiming it restricts his ability to defend himself publicly.
How does the corrupt Merchan still have the ability to gag Trump?
This shouldn’t be allowed. pic.twitter.com/zQyCCZQEDD
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) January 4, 2025
Merchan justified his stance on sentencing, emphasizing that incarceration is unlikely given the prosecution’s revised recommendations. Trump, however, focused on what he described as the illegitimacy of the case itself, calling for accountability within the judicial system.
The Trump sentencing: Curtain to fall on Merchan’s Hamlet on the Hudson
No rule of law in NY. https://t.co/IyTAM10SCz
— persistantNagatha 🇺🇸🍊 (@kmcccomcastnet) January 6, 2025
Testimony from Trump’s accountant supported his claim that the financial records were accurate and transparent. Trump said the case has no legal merit, arguing that respected scholars agree with his assessment.
He’s not guilty of anything. If you knew the law you would know that Bragg has no jurisdiction over federal issues and the statute of limitations ran out on the state of NY. Merchan and Bragg are guilty…not Trump. The people know what’s going on and that’s why Trump won!
— lynn (@lynn69937952) January 6, 2025
In addition to this case, Trump highlighted ongoing legal battles in New York, including what he called an improper valuation of his Mar-a-Lago property and a substantial judgment in another lawsuit.