Judge Denies Trump's Dismissal Request, Sentencing Set Before Inauguration

A New York judge denied Donald Trump's request to dismiss his felony conviction, scheduling his sentencing for ten days before his presidential inauguration. The judge, who previously donated to a rival political campaign, ruled that presidential immunity does not apply to a president-elect. Trump's lawyers argued that the sentencing would unconstitutionally interfere with his transition into office. The case, stemming from hush-money payments made before the 2016 election, has seen multiple delays, with the judge ultimately deciding to proceed with sentencing before Trump's oath of office. The judge hinted at a potential lenient sentence, while still allowing Trump to appeal.