The People of the State of New York against Donald J. Trump

On March 30th, 2023, President Donald Trump was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury. Trump’s indictment stems from his alleged role in a scandal surrounding a hush money payment, made to porn star Stormy Daniels, during the 2016 presidential election campaign cycle. Although the indictment is under seal, as it will remain until Trump’s April 4th, 2023, arraignment, it is known the former president will face more than 30 counts.  

Although Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, earlier in March to warn his followers of an imminent arrest, CNN reporting indicates the former president was startled by the charges.  

This is the first time a current or former president of the United States has faced criminal charges. Adding to the historical significance, Trump is also currently a few months into his third bid for the White House, a bid for which Trump has vowed to continue running, despite criminal charges. Any individual can run for president of the United States, even if they are indicted.  

On April 4th, 2023, Trump was arraigned in a New York City court. Trump plead not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. After the arraignment, Trump flew back to Mar-a-Lago, the Florida resort where he resides, and gave a press conference indicating his intent to fight the charges while still maintaining his 2024 bid for the White House.