Donald Trump, facing a January 10th sentencing date in a New York hush-money case, has appealed to the Supreme Court to halt the proceedings. The appeal, filed Wednesday, argues the court should block the sentencing to prevent "grave injustice" and protect the presidency.
Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, a key figure in the appeal, reportedly spoke with Trump hours before the filing. However, Alito clarified that their conversation did not address the emergency application and was instead focused on recommending a law clerk.
This move places Trump on the brink of becoming the first criminally convicted president in U.S. history. The Supreme Court's potential intervention, including considering a precedent-setting "presidential immunity" claim, is significant.
The jury convicted Trump in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records, related to hush-money payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election. The Supreme Court's decision in July on "presidential immunity" significantly impacts this case.
Trump's legal team argues that the evidence used in his trial should be considered part of his presidential duties and thus protected. They contend the Supreme Court should block any criminal prosecution of a president-elect based on this principle.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is also set to hear arguments Friday on a separate case, concerning the potential ban of TikTok. Trump is also seeking the court's intervention on this matter. Responses from Justice Merchan and the Manhattan District Attorney are anticipated by January 9th.
Alito's involvement in these matters, along with previous Supreme Court decisions favorable to Trump and right-wing interests, has drawn considerable criticism, including calls for his recusal. These criticisms stem from rulings that have sparked protests, including the overturning of Roe v. Wade and actions taken in relation to the 2020 presidential election.
