In a historic legal development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has been indicted by a Manhattan grand jury, marking the first time in American history that a current or former president has faced criminal charges.

According to sources familiar with the case, Trump faces more than 30 counts related to business fraud. The charges stem from a long-running investigation led by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office into an alleged hush money payment and subsequent cover-up involving adult film actress Stormy Daniels, just days before the 2016 presidential election.

In response to the indictment, Trump released a sharply worded statement condemning the charges as “political persecution and election interference at the highest level in history.”

“The Democrats have lied, cheated, and stolen in their obsession with trying to ’Get Trump,’” he wrote, framing the indictment as part of a broader partisan effort to damage his 2024 presidential campaign.

Prominent Republican leaders have come to Trump’s defense. Former Vice President Mike Pence criticized the indictment in an interview with CNN, calling it a “disservice to the country” and warning that the move would further divide Americans.

Key members of the House Republican leadership have echoed similar sentiments, accusing the Manhattan District Attorney of weaponizing the justice system for political gain.

The charges against Trump have not yet been made public, as the indictment remains under seal. However, reports suggest they relate to the $130,000 payment allegedly made to Stormy Daniels to prevent her from disclosing a past sexual encounter with Trump. Prosecutors argue that the payment and its classification in business records may constitute campaign finance and document fraud violations.

Trump is expected to surrender to authorities and appear in court for arraignment on Tuesday, where the charges will be formally unsealed and read aloud.

The court appearance is expected to draw intense media coverage and heightened security, as law enforcement prepares for potential protests and disruptions.