Trump's Hush Money Trial Reaches Verdict Phase in New York
- Trump's criminal trial in New York nears conclusion with closing arguments underway.
- Twelve jurors in New York City set to announce verdict in first criminal trial of a former U.S. president.
- Potential implications on the upcoming election based on trial outcome.
Astrid Martinez is talking about the closing arguments in the trial of former President Donald Trump for hush-money. This trial is important because it could affect voters in swing states like Pennsylvania, with only six months left until the election. The jury is expected to start deliberating on Wednesday. This is the first of Trump's four criminal cases to go to trial, and it might be the only one before the election on Nov. 5. Even though the trial hasn't changed the close race much, Trump's past behavior is well-known. If the facts of the case haven't influenced voters much, the legal outcome might not either. If Trump is found guilty, he could face prison time, which would be a first for a former president. The Secret Service is getting ready for this possibility. If Trump is guilty, the judge would have many options. A guilty verdict would make it easier for Democrats and Biden to criticize Trump. The Biden campaign is ready to call Trump a "convicted felon" if he's found guilty. Polls suggest that a guilty verdict could reduce some support for Trump. Trump has been saying that the case against him is politically motivated. An acquittal would be seen as a win for Trump, his supporters, and potential running mates. If the jury can't agree on a verdict, the judge might declare a mistrial.