Former President Donald Trump, 77, has been convicted on 34 felony counts for directing hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels, marking a first in US history.

Despite the conviction, recent media coverage has not significantly impacted national polling for his race against President Biden, with initial surveys showing the election in a near dead heat.

Trump and the Republican National Committee raised $141 million in May, boosted by his criminal conviction, narrowing the financial gap with President Biden.

The fundraising success is attributed to both grassroots support and high-profile donors, including major Republican donors who had previously distanced themselves from Trump.

Ultra-wealthy donors, such as Miriam Adelson, continue to support Trump post-conviction, with both campaigns seeing a boost in donations following the conviction.

Experts believe Trump faces slim chances of successfully appealing his conviction, while reactions to the verdict remain polarized with liberals cheering and conservatives calling it unjust.

The impact of Trump's conviction on voter opinions for the upcoming fall elections is a topic of discussion, with recent polls gauging its effect on voter minds.

Public perception of such convictions varies, with some former national leaders making political comebacks despite facing criminal trials and convictions in other countries.

Trump's legal troubles raise questions about their effect on his political career, as his supporters prioritize his representation of their interests over his controversies.

The verdict highlights public faith in the US justice system and the importance of political leaders' responses in affirming equal application of the law in democracies.