Judge Merchan indefinitely adjourns Trump court hearing, delays sentencing in New York

Judge Merchan decided to adjourn Donald Trump's hearing before the court, delaying sentencing in the Stormy Daniels case. Bloomberg reported the news on Tuesday, noting that the judge did not justify his decision.

The stay does not dismiss the charges against Trump. Instead, it removes the previously scheduled sentencing date of Nov. 26, as the court considers how to proceed with the case against the president-elect.

Judge Merchan has several options for proceeding with the case. He could delay Trump's sentencing until after he leaves the White House, dismiss the conviction entirely, or impose a sentence of unconditional discharge. The latter would leave the conviction intact but spare Trump from prison, fines, or probation.

Alvin Bragg accepts delay

US Attorney Alvin Bragg sent a brief to Judge Merchan in which he announced that he will oppose President-elect Trump's attempt to dismiss his criminal conviction in New York, but they also told the judge that they are not opposed to pausing the case.

The district attorney's office suggested postponing all remaining proceedings in the case, including the Nov. 26 sentencing, until after Trump leaves the White House in 2029.

Victory for Trump's team

For Trump's team, the decision to postpone the Stormy Daniels sentencing is a victory. Steve Cheung, Trump's campaign spokesman, wrote in a statement that this is a "definitive victory" for his team.

"This is a total and definitive victory for President Trump and the American People who elected him in a landslide," Cheung said. "The Manhattan DA has conceded that this Witch Hunt cannot continue. The lawless case is now stayed, and President Trump's legal team is moving to get it dismissed once and for all."