Andrew McCarthy suggests that Judge Juan Merchan might sentence Trump to prison on September 18, potentially impacting the election.

The situation you’ve described is highly charged and politically sensitive. Andrew McCarthy, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney, has indeed suggested that Judge Juan Merchan might sentence Trump to prison on September 18th, which could have significant implications given its proximity to the election.

The rejection of Trump's recusal requests and the continuation of the partial gag order have raised concerns about the fairness of the judicial process, particularly among Trump supporters. Some argue that these actions are part of a broader effort to undermine Trump's candidacy, while others see them as legitimate legal proceedings.

Republicans’ responses have varied, with some expressing outrage and others remaining more measured. The legal basis for these decisions hinges on interpretations of the law, judicial discretion, and the specific circumstances of the case. The political implications, however, are a significant factor in the public discourse surrounding this case.