Who Trump often attacked during the trial, was the “only lawful sentence” to safeguard “the office of the president… not the occupant of the office.”
Judge Merchan stresses before imposing Trump’s sentence that the “protections afforded to the office of the president” only apply to that position and “not the occupant of the office.”
“It is through that lens and that reality that this court must determine a lawful sentence,” argues Merchan.
“This court has determined that the only lawful sentence… is an unconditional discharge,” Merchan states as he administers the punishment.
Merchan concludes by saying, “Sir, I wish you god speed as you assume your second term in office.”
Trump shuts off his remote link after the hearing. In closing, Trump says, “I have been treated very, very unfairly, and thank you very much.”
