Former US President, Donald Trump has announced he would appeal his recent conviction on hush-money charges, becoming the first former president convicted of a crime.
Speaking at Trump Tower today, May 20, he denounced his trial as “very unfair” and attacked his opponents as “sick” and “fascists.”
During his 35-minute speech, Trump criticized Judge Juan Merchan, accusing him of bias and unfair treatment. He also diverted to unrelated attacks on President Joe Biden and illegal immigrants.
A New York jury had found Trump guilty on all 34 charges of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment to Stormy Daniels during his 2016 campaign.
He faces potential probation or prison, with sentencing set for July 11, just before the Republican National Convention.
Trump’s campaign capitalized on the verdict, raising $34.8 million shortly after the announcement. Despite his conviction, Trump remains a contender in the 2024 presidential race.