What happens now that Donald Trump has won the US election while still facing criminal charges? | Ents & Arts News

Regardless of the outcome in the White House, this election was destined to make history.

If Kamala Harris had won, she would have been the first female president. On the other hand, Donald Trump made history as the first convicted felon to become US president.

In May, Trump became the first former president to be criminally convicted for trying to conceal a hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign.

He was convicted of 34 counts of falsifying business records to commit election fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced in November.

Trump, set to be inaugurated in January, is also facing various state and federal criminal cases along with civil cases. He denies the charges against him, claiming they are politically motivated.

Legal experts believe that the federal cases are likely to be dropped.

‘Hush money’ – state case

This case concerns Stormy Daniels, for which Trump was found guilty of covering up a payment to silence her about a sexual encounter before the 2016 election.

Trump faces sentencing in New York and could potentially serve up to four years in prison. His legal team is likely to request a delay in the sentencing.

With the Supreme Court’s ruling on presidential immunity, the case has faced delays as Trump argues for dismissal.

Election subversion – federal case

Trump is also facing charges of attempting to overturn his defeat in the 2020 election. He has pleaded not guilty to accusations of obstructing the election process.

He is accused of spreading lies about election fraud and using deceit to subvert the election results.

However, this case has been held up by the Supreme Court’s ruling on presidential immunity.

Election interference – state case

In August 2023, Trump was formally booked at Georgia’s Fulton County jail, charged with a conspiracy to overturn his defeat in the battleground state in the 2020 election.

While in custody, he had his mugshot taken before being released on bail. Denying the charges, Trump remarked that he was innocent and decried the justice system. He challenged the election results in Georgia, leading to recounts that ultimately confirmed Biden’s victory.

Misuse of classified documents – federal case

Trump was also charged with mishandling classified documents, including removing CCTV footage from the White House and other related issues.

However, a judge dismissed this case in July.

Prosecutors are appealing this decision.

Civil cases

He is facing multiple civil lawsuits totaling over $500m, including a civil fraud case in New York and cases brought by writer E Jean Carroll for assault and defamation.

Appeals are pending in these cases, with a ruling expected soon.

Trump is also entangled in eight civil suits related to the US Capitol attack on 6 January 2021.

Considering appeals and legal processes, these cases may take months or longer to resolve.

What comes next?