If Donald J. Trump were to be elected president in November, he would, after his inauguration, have the ability to grant pardons for federal convictions. But that power does not apply to state convictions, so Mr. Trump could not give himself clemency for the 34 felonies now on his record in New York State.
Presidential pardon power is derived from Article II, Section 2 of the United States Constitution, which says the commander in chief shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment.
Today's verdict reaffirms that no one is above the law.
The 34 counts on which Mr. Trump was convicted were all Class E felonies, the least serious felony in New York State. He could be sentenced up to four years in prison, or probation.
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