Donald Trump’s Felony Conviction: Impacts On Voting, Gun Rights, And Business

New York: US President-elect Donald Trump ’s hush money conviction in New York has raised questions about the long-term implications of a felony conviction, despite his sentence of an unconditional discharge. While the case has been closed without a fine or community service, Trump’s criminal record could still have significant consequences. Debate has erupted regarding what might change for Trump, and what will remain the same, after his felony conviction.

While Donald Trump’s felony conviction in New York does not come with immediate consequences like jail time or a fine, it does carry certain legal and personal implications, particularly regarding his voting rights, gun ownership, and business opportunities. Trump’s ability to hold office and travel abroad remains unaffected, but his felony record could still shape his future endeavours, especially in areas like business licensing and potential pardons.

Voting Rights, Gun Ownership

According to the reports, despite his felony conviction, Trump can vote in Florida. The law in Florida restores voting rights to individuals convicted of felonies once they have completed their sentences, with certain exceptions for people convicted of murder or sex offences. Since Trump was convicted in New York, his voting rights are unaffected by the felony, as Florida does not bar people convicted of felonies in other states from voting.

It is also being said that under federal law, individuals convicted of felonies are prohibited from owning firearms. This would apply to Trump as well, who would be unable to possess guns due to his felony conviction unless his rights are restored through a legal process, which is unlikely under current laws.

Will Trump Require To Give DNA Sample

As per information, New York law mandates that all convicted felons provide a DNA sample to the state's crime databank. The sample is collected through a simple cheek swab and is then entered into a national database, which could be used to connect individuals to unsolved crimes. As a convicted felon, Trump will be required to comply with this law.

Can Trump Hold Office

A felony conviction does not prevent someone from holding federal office, including the presidency. In fact, there are no federal laws prohibiting convicted felons from running for president. State and local laws may vary, but Trump would not face restrictions on seeking the White House in future elections due to his felony conviction.

Can Trump Travel To Foreign

Trump will not be restricted from travelling abroad as a result of his felony conviction. As a former president, he will continue to have access to a diplomatic passport for official business. He can also keep a regular tourist passport, though certain countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, may restrict or deny entry to individuals with felony convictions.

Impact On His Business

Donald Trump’s felony conviction may complicate certain aspects of his business ventures. For example, it could bar him from obtaining liquor licenses in some states, such as New Jersey, where Trump owns golf courses. However, his properties are owned through corporate entities, and he is not personally involved in the management of liquor licenses. Similarly, Trump’s criminal record could hinder his ability to reenter the casino business, as gaming licenses are often denied to individuals with felony convictions.

Can Trump Be Pardoned

New York’s governor, Kathy Hochul, is the only person with the authority to pardon Trump for his conviction, as the case was tried in state court. However, taking into consideration Hochul’s position and previous comments, it seems unlikely that she would grant such a pardon. In a recent interview, she indicated that pardons require “remorse”, something Trump has not expressed, as he continues to maintain his innocence and describes the case as politically motivated.