Donald Trump’s Legal Challenges: What Lies Ahead for the Former President

Donald Trump may have said goodbye to some of his legal troubles following his election victory, but several unresolved issues still loom over his presidency. As sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted, many of his cases have been dismissed or stalled, while others await resolution after his term.

Hush Money Case

In May 2023, Trump was convicted in a New York state court on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels during the 2016 presidential campaign. Although Trump pleaded not guilty, his sentencing has been delayed due to a Supreme Court decision granting presidential immunity. Prosecutors argue sentencing should occur after his presidency, but Trump’s lawyers oppose this, citing potential impacts on his term.

Georgia Election Interference Case

In August 2023, Trump and 18 co-defendants were indicted in Georgia for allegedly conspiring to overturn the 2020 election results. The case has stalled due to allegations of conflict of interest involving District Attorney Fani Willis, who was disqualified following an appeals court ruling. Efforts to assign a new prosecutor could delay proceedings further, pushing the trial beyond Trump’s presidency.

Civil Fraud Verdict

Trump faces a $500 million civil fraud judgment in New York, stemming from allegations of financial misconduct. He has denied the charges and appealed, but no ruling has been issued. His legal team requested dismissal to avoid disrupting his presidential duties, but Attorney General Letitia James declined.

E. Jean Carroll Verdicts

Trump is contesting two defamation and sexual abuse verdicts brought by writer E. Jean Carroll, totaling $88 million. While his appeal of a $5 million verdict was recently rejected, his challenge to the $83 million judgment remains pending. Carroll’s attorneys argue the Supreme Court’s immunity ruling does not apply to Trump’s comments made during his presidency.

Jan. 6 Lawsuits

Although Trump is no longer facing criminal charges related to the January 6 Capitol riot, he still faces eight civil suits from injured law enforcement officers and Democratic lawmakers. These cases hinge on the question of presidential immunity, with a ruling expected by summer.

Central Park Five Defamation Case

Trump is being sued by the Exonerated Five for remarks he made during a presidential debate, falsely claiming they pleaded guilty to a 1989 crime for which they were later exonerated. Trump has moved to dismiss the suit, arguing his statements were “substantially true” and protected political speech.

Ongoing Legal Threats

Despite his election, Trump’s legal challenges remain a significant concern. While some cases have been delayed or dismissed due to presidential immunity, they continue to cast a shadow over his presidency and could resurface once his term concludes.

Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, has labeled these cases as "witch hunts" and reiterated Trump’s commitment to “Making America Great Again.” However, with millions of dollars and years of legal battles at stake, the road ahead remains uncertain for the former president.