Manhattan DA vows to pursue Trump case despite presidential immunity debate
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg signaled Tuesday that his office would continue its opposition to President-elect Donald Trump’s motion to dismiss the falsified business records case, even as Trump prepares to assume the presidency.
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg signaled Tuesday that his office would continue its opposition to President-elect Donald Trump’s motion to dismiss the falsified business records case, even as Trump prepares to assume the presidency.
“The People deeply respect the Office of the President, are mindful of the demands and obligations of the presidency, and acknowledge that Defendant’s inauguration will raise unprecedented legal questions,” prosecutors wrote. “We also deeply respect the fundamental role of the jury in our constitutional system.”
The case stems from Trump’s May conviction on 34 counts of falsifying business records. While sentencing was initially set for July, it has been delayed multiple times due to legal disputes, including the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on presidential immunity.
Judge Juan Merchan last week paused proceedings following Trump’s election win, delaying a decision on Trump’s motion to overturn the jury’s verdict on immunity grounds. Bragg’s filing, however, argued that no existing law mandates dismissal of a criminal case initiated before a defendant becomes president, particularly when based on conduct unrelated to official duties.
Prosecutors suggested further delays to sentencing, currently scheduled for Nov. 26, citing Trump’s plans to appeal. “Staying proceedings now until this Court’s resolution of the motion to dismiss would thus avoid unnecessary litigation,” they wrote.
As legal and constitutional questions loom, Bragg’s stance underscores his commitment to ensuring the case moves forward, despite Trump’s imminent presidency.