President-elect Donald Trump has avoided jail time, fines, or community service following his conviction related to the New York hush money case. On Friday, a judge issued a sentence of “unconditional discharge,” effectively closing the case with no punishment. However, unless the conviction is overturned, Trump will carry felonies on his criminal record, potentially impacting certain rights and opportunities.
Voting Rights
Despite his felony conviction, Trump will retain the ability to vote. He is registered to vote in Florida, where the law restores voting rights after the completion of a sentence, except for those convicted of murder or sex offenses. Since Trump was convicted in New York, where voting rights are restored after release, his Florida registration remains intact.
Gun Ownership
Trump, like other convicted felons, will lose the right to possess firearms under federal law. This restriction prevents anyone convicted of a felony from legally owning or purchasing a gun.
DNA Sample Requirement
As part of his felony conviction in New York, Trump will be required to provide a DNA sample for the state’s crime databank. This process involves a non-invasive cheek swab to collect genetic material, which is then analyzed and added to the state’s database. The system helps identify suspects in unsolved crimes by matching profiles with evidence collected from crime scenes.
Eligibility to Hold Office
There is no federal law that prohibits individuals with felony convictions from running for president or holding federal office. State laws may impose restrictions on candidates for state and local offices, but these do not apply to federal elections. Trump remains eligible to run for re-election in the future.
Travel Limitations
Trump will retain the ability to travel internationally. As a former president, he will have a diplomatic passport for official business and can also maintain a regular passport. While some countries may restrict entry to individuals with felony convictions, such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Israel, there are no restrictions preventing him from traveling.
Business Opportunities
Trump’s felony conviction could impact his ability to hold certain business licenses, such as liquor or gaming licenses. In New Jersey, where he owns golf courses, individuals convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude are barred from holding liquor licenses. However, since Trump’s properties are owned by corporate entities, his personal conviction may not affect the ability to serve alcohol at his businesses. His past involvement in the casino industry could also prevent him from re-entering the business, as criminal convictions typically disqualify individuals from obtaining gaming licenses.
Pardon Possibilities
Trump’s only potential route for pardon lies with New York Governor Kathy Hochul, as the case was tried in state court. While presidential pardons only apply to federal crimes, it seems unlikely that Hochul, a Democrat, would offer a pardon. Hochul has stated that any consideration for a pardon would require remorse, a sentiment Trump has not expressed, maintaining his stance that the case against him is a political “hoax.”
As the legal proceedings surrounding Trump continue, the long-term effects of his felony conviction will unfold, potentially altering various aspects of his personal and professional life.