CNN’s legal expert said last week that it’s very possible President-elect Donald Trump could benefit from his sentencing in his so-called ‘hush money’ case in Manhattan.Last week, Trump appeared in Judge Juan Merchan’s courtroom virtually, where he was given no jail time or any other form of punishment, save for being officially convicted on 34 felony counts related to allegations that he illegally attempted to hide the payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels regarding an affair in the mid-2000s that he said never took place.

Trump Avoids Jail Time in Manhattan ‘Hush Money’ Case; Legal Expert Sees Potential Political Advantage

Former President Donald Trump, now President-elect, recently appeared virtually in Manhattan’s Judge Juan Merchan’s courtroom for sentencing in his controversial “hush money” case. Trump, who faced 34 felony counts related to allegations of falsifying business records to cover up payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels, avoided jail time. Instead, his sentencing amounted only to an official conviction, sparking speculation about its potential impact on his political future.

Trump’s legal troubles stem from allegations that he orchestrated a $130,000 payment to Daniels in the final weeks of the 2016 presidential campaign to silence her claims of an alleged affair in the mid-2000s—claims Trump has consistently denied. Prosecutors argued that the payment, along with subsequent efforts to conceal its purpose, constituted a violation of state laws. Trump pleaded not guilty to all charges, labeling the case as part of a politically motivated “witch hunt.”

Legal Expert Weighs In

CNN’s legal expert, Jeffrey Toobin, offered a surprising take on the case’s outcome, suggesting that Trump’s conviction could paradoxically benefit him politically. “Trump’s base tends to rally around him whenever he’s perceived as being unfairly targeted,” Toobin said. “This case, especially given the lack of jail time or severe consequences, feeds into his narrative of being a victim of a biased justice system.”

According to Toobin, Trump’s legal battles have consistently energized his supporters and helped him maintain a strong grip on the Republican Party. The relatively light sentencing in this case could further bolster his claims of innocence and unfair treatment, potentially galvanizing his base ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

The Courtroom Appearance

Last week, Trump’s virtual courtroom appearance marked a significant moment in the “hush money” saga. Judge Merchan delivered the conviction but refrained from imposing jail time or additional penalties. The lack of a harsher sentence surprised some legal observers, given the gravity of the charges. However, Merchan emphasized that the conviction itself carried weight, noting that it officially established Trump’s culpability under New York law.

Despite the conviction, Trump’s legal team celebrated the absence of punitive measures. “This outcome reinforces what we’ve said all along—this case was politically motivated and lacked real substance,” said Joe Tacopina, one of Trump’s attorneys. “President Trump remains steadfast in his fight against these baseless attacks.”

Political Implications

The “hush money” case is one of several legal challenges Trump faces as he seeks to return to the White House. However, political analysts suggest that these legal troubles have, paradoxically, enhanced his image among many Republican voters. Polls indicate that a significant portion of the GOP electorate views the investigations into Trump as politically driven, reinforcing their support for him as a leader willing to challenge the establishment.

Toobin pointed out that Trump’s ability to frame his legal battles as personal and political vendettas has been a cornerstone of his political strategy. “Every indictment, every court appearance becomes an opportunity for Trump to strengthen his narrative of defiance,” Toobin said. “It’s a strategy that has worked for him before and could work again in 2024.”

Broader Legal Context

Trump’s “hush money” case adds to a growing list of legal challenges, including investigations into his handling of classified documents and alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. While these cases pose potential risks to his political ambitions, they also provide him with a platform to amplify his grievances and connect with his base.

Critics argue that Trump’s legal troubles highlight a pattern of behavior that undermines the rule of law. “No one should be above the law, not even a former president,” said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, whose office prosecuted the case. Bragg’s office has faced backlash from Trump’s supporters, who accuse it of pursuing a partisan agenda.

Looking Ahead

As Trump prepares for the 2024 presidential race, the outcome of his “hush money” case underscores the complex intersection of law and politics. While the conviction marks a legal setback, the lack of punitive measures may allow Trump to frame it as another chapter in his ongoing battle against perceived injustice.

For now, Trump’s supporters appear undeterred, viewing the case as further evidence of his resilience in the face of adversity. Whether this legal drama ultimately helps or hinders his bid for the presidency remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Trump’s ability to turn adversity into political capital remains unmatched.