NEW YORK — Following Donald Trump's recent sentencing in connection with a New York hush money case, significant implications arise concerning his rights as a convicted felon. Although he received an unconditional discharge, permitting him to avoid jail time, fines, or mandated community service, the legal ramifications remain profound. Specifically, while Trump retains his ability to vote, he is no longer permitted to possess firearms and is required to provide a DNA sample.

Trump is registered to vote in Florida and remains eligible to do so, as the state restores voting rights to felons who have completed their sentences. Given that Trump was not incarcerated and is not awaiting probation, his voting rights are intact under Florida law. However, New York law dictates that individuals convicted of felonies cannot vote while in prison, though rights are automatically restored after release. Consequently, since Trump is not subject to jail time, he can exercise his voting rights without restrictions.

Conversely, Trump's felony conviction prohibits him from owning firearms under federal law. This rule reflects the broader legal stance that bars individuals with felony records from possessing guns, significantly impacting Trump's previously held gun license.

In addition to voting and gun possession implications, Trump is mandated by New York law to submit a DNA sample for the state's crime databank. This process, which is standard for all felons in New York, entails providing a non-invasive cheek swab that will be analyzed and entered into a national database, aiding in criminal investigations.

Despite his felony status, Trump can still run for federal office, including the presidency, as there are no federal laws barring felons from such positions. However, eligibility for state or local offices differs, with some requiring pardons to reenter public service. While Trump maintains aspirations to continue his political career, this might depend on the regulations of various states.

Regarding international travel, Trump holds a diplomatic passport that facilitates official foreign visits. Notably, individuals with felony convictions usually face restrictions on traveling to certain nations like Canada and the UK.

Trump's felony conviction could impinge upon his business endeavors as well, particularly in areas such as holding liquor licenses. In states like New Jersey, laws prevent individuals convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude from obtaining such licenses. However, due to the structure of his business entities, Trump's real estate holdings may not be directly affected, given that he does not serve as an officer in the companies holding the licenses.

Finally, Trump's potential for receiving a pardon relies solely on New York’s governor, Kathy Hochul. Signs indicate that obtaining a pardon will be challenging, as Hochul highlighted the necessity of demonstrating “remorse” in the pardon process, an unlikely stance for Trump, who has consistently maintained his innocence and labeled the charges as politically motivated.

This situation represents a pivotal moment in Trump's post-presidential journey, emphasizing the complex interplay between legal accountability and political maneuvering. As he navigates these new challenges, the extent to which they will obstruct his ambitions remains to be seen.

Read more on the implications of Trump's felony conviction.