Donald Trump, the U.S. president-elect, was sentenced to an unconditional discharge on Friday for covering up hush money payments to a porn star. This decision comes despite Trump’s efforts to avoid becoming the first felon to assume the White House.

New York Judge Juan Merchan opted for the mildest possible penalty, sparing Trump prison time or fines. Trump had been convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in May 2024, charges that carried potential jail time.

“Never before has this court been presented with such a unique and remarkable set of circumstances,” Judge Merchan stated. “The only lawful sentence that permits entry of a judgment of conviction without encroaching on the highest office of the land is an unconditional discharge.”

Trump appeared virtually for the sentencing, flanked by U.S. flags, expressing his disdain for the proceedings. “This has been a terrible experience and a tremendous setback for New York and its courts,” he said. “It was done to damage my reputation so I would lose the election.”

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass emphasized the gravity of Trump’s actions, describing them as “premeditated and continuous deception” and insisting the jury’s unanimous guilty verdict must be respected.

The trial highlighted testimony from witnesses that Trump concealed illicit payments to Stormy Daniels to prevent disclosure of their alleged affair during his 2016 presidential campaign.

Trump’s appeals to delay sentencing were dismissed by both New York State and the U.S. Supreme Court, which allowed proceedings to move forward just days before his second inauguration.

Outside the courthouse, supporters and detractors of Trump gathered, underscoring the polarizing nature of the case. Trump’s defense attorney, Todd Blanche, criticized the prosecution’s arguments, while prosecutors contended that Trump’s actions had eroded public trust in the justice system.

The unconditional discharge upholds the guilty verdict without imposing sanctions, solidifying Trump’s status as the first former president convicted of a felony. While Trump faced potential imprisonment of up to four years, Judge Merchan’s decision leaves his conviction intact without additional penalties.

This case marks a historic moment in U.S. legal and political history as Trump prepares to assume office amid controversy and divided public opinion.