Judge delays ruling on Trump’s hush money conviction

A New York State judge has put President-elect Donald Trump’s conviction for hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels on hold until at least November 19.

Trump’s former attorney Michael Cohen had paid $130,000 to Daniels to prevent the release of an alleged 2006 affair, which Trump has vehemently denied.

Justice Juan Merchan halted any decision on vacating Trump’s conviction, citing the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision that shields presidents from prosecution over actions related to their official duties.

The delay comes after Trump’s November 5 election win, with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office agreeing to reassess the case after Trump’s defence team requested a review.

Trump was convicted in May of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records to cover up a potential scandal before his 2016 election.

The original sentencing date was set for November 26, but prosecutors now have until November 19 to propose next steps.