NEW YORK (WPIX) — Former President Donald Trump was found guilty of all 34 counts in his historic hush money trial on Thursday. People may now be wondering if he can still run and serve another term as president of the United States.
The conviction will not bar Trump from continuing his campaign for the White House.
Nothing in the U.S. Constitution states that a convicted felon or someone convicted of a crime cannot be a presidential candidate.
The U.S. Constitution states for someone to be a candidate for president, they must:
- Be a natural-born citizen of the U.S.
- Be at least 35 years old
- Have been a resident of the U.S. for 14 years
“Anyone who meets these requirements can declare their candidacy for president,” reads the U.S. General Services Administration website. “Once a candidate raises or spends more than $5,000 for their campaign, they must register with the Federal Election Commission. That includes naming a principal campaign committee to raise and spend campaign funds.”
So, yes, Trump can still run for presidential office.
However, if he were to win and take office next year, he would not be able to erase his conviction from his record. Under the U.S. Constitution, acting presidents can grant pardons for federal crimes but not for state crimes such as this case.
Legal requirements for presidential candidates have remained the same since the year George Washington accepted the presidency, according to the Library of Congress.
This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press and Nexstar Media Wire.
