Judge Says Trump's Hush Money Case Not Covered by Presidential Immunity

In a recent ruling, New York Judge Juan Merchan decided that the criminal case against former President Trump, involving hush money paid to Stormy Daniels, does not fall under presidential immunity. Trump's lawyers had argued that the evidence introduced during the trial, including testimony from Hope Hicks and Trump's tweets, were official acts protected by immunity. However, Merchan ruled that these actions were unofficial and not part of Trump's presidential duties. The judge also emphasized the "overwhelming evidence of guilt" that led to Trump's conviction on 34 felony counts. The ruling comes after Trump's attorneys tried to dismiss his indictment, citing a Supreme Court decision that granted him presumptive immunity for official acts while in office. Merchan noted that the evidence in the hush money case related only to Trump's personal conduct and did not involve his presidential authority. This decision means the case will move forward, but Trump's lawyers have filed an allegation of juror misconduct, which the judge has agreed to review if supported by sworn testimony. The judge's letter highlighted the importance of thoroughly investigating such claims before making any decisions.