Donald Trump faces significant stakes in the upcoming November 5 election, as its outcome could have profound implications for his various legal challenges. He has characterized this election as “the most important” in U.S. history, suggesting that a victory could lead to the dismissal of federal criminal cases against him. Additionally, state criminal proceedings might be paused until he leaves office, potentially delaying ongoing civil cases.
Conversely, a loss to Vice President Kamala Harris could result in Trump facing a possible jail sentence later that month for his criminal conviction in New York and may open him up to further criminal trials in 2025, along with additional civil suits. He is currently appealing civil judgments totaling $500 million against him.
NBC News legal analyst Chuck Rosenberg noted, “There are a lot more arrows in the quiver when you’re the president.” Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung expressed confidence in Trump’s chances, asserting that all legal cases should be dismissed, referring to them as “witch hunts” that have “imploded” following a recent Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity.
Current Legal Challenges
Hush Money Case: Regardless of the election’s outcome, Trump’s immediate focus will be his potential sentencing for 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in New York, scheduled for November 26. New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan has delayed the proceedings to allow Trump’s attorneys to argue for the dismissal of charges based on the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on presidential immunity. If the sentencing occurs, Trump could face jail time, which would likely be appealed.
Federal Election Interference Case: Should Trump lose, he must contend with special counsel Jack Smith’s election interference case, which involves charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. The trial, which was postponed while the Supreme Court considered Trump’s immunity claims, may still proceed even if Trump is elected, although he indicated intentions to fire Smith immediately.
Georgia Election Interference Case: This case involves Trump and others accused of illegally conspiring to overturn the 2020 election results. The proceedings are on hold until December when an appeals court will decide if the Fulton County District Attorney’s office can continue its involvement. If Trump loses, the case could move forward, but if the DA’s office is removed, further delays are likely.
Classified Documents Case: In July, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed a criminal case against Trump regarding alleged misleading of federal investigators about classified materials. Special counsel Smith is appealing this decision, and if Trump wins, the appeal may be abandoned, but legal challenges could continue.
E. Jean Carroll Appeals: Trump is appealing civil judgments totaling over $500 million, including significant awards in cases brought by writer E. Jean Carroll for defamation and sexual assault. These appeals are expected to proceed regardless of the election’s outcome.
January 6 Lawsuits: Trump faces eight civil lawsuits related to his actions on January 6, 2021. He has claimed immunity for these actions, but a federal appeals court allowed the cases to move forward. The timeline for trial is uncertain and may extend if Trump argues for delays based on ongoing criminal proceedings.
Defamation Suit from the Exonerated Five: Trump is also facing a defamation lawsuit from the Exonerated Five, who were wrongfully convicted in the 1989 Central Park jogger case. This case is unlikely to be affected by the election, as past Supreme Court rulings indicate that presidents do not have immunity from civil suits unrelated to their official duties.
As the election approaches, the intersection of Trump’s legal troubles and his political ambitions remains a critical focus, with potential consequences that could shape both his future and the political landscape.
