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An ex-aide to former President Barack Obama expressed astonishment that former President Donald Trump was found guilty in his hush money trial.

David Litt, now a bestselling author, political commentator and self-described "democracy enthusiast" took to X (formerly Twitter) following the news that Trump was found guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records to hide hush money payments to adult film actor Stormy Daniels in the run up to the 2016 presidential election.

"I'm honestly surprised," he wrote. "Any one of these jurors could have hung the jury, gone public, and been set for life as a right-wing media darling. Book deals, speaking circuit, position in a future Trump admin, whatever they wanted. But all 12 put public service over personal gain."

Newsweek has reached out to Litt via email for comment.

The case marks the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted of a crime, setting a significant legal and political precedent.

The jury came to their verdict after prosecutors successfully argued that Trump falsified internal business records to hide payments to Daniels, listing them as legal expenses.

Reactions to Trump's conviction ranged from surprise to anger across the political spectrum.

Republican Senator Tim Scott, a potential candidate for vice president, denounced the verdict on X, calling it an "absolute injustice" and accusing the justice system of being eroded. "Hear me clearly: You cannot silence the American people. You cannot stop us from voting for change. Joe Biden you're fired. We the People stand with Donald J. Trump," Scott wrote.

Alex Jones, a far-right commentator, issued a "False Flag Alert" in reaction to the conviction, suggesting the charges were part of a larger conspiracy against Trump. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also expressed her outrage, claiming the conviction was a result of a deep state conspiracy. "The fix is in. They would love to replace him or demand he take Nikki Haley as VP or they will tell him he has to rot in jail," Greene tweeted.

On the other side, Democratic leaders framed the conviction as a triumph of the rule of law. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi described the moment as somber but necessary. "Trial by a jury of peers is a fundamental principle of democracy, which must be respected," Pelosi posted.

Representative Adam Schiff highlighted the significance of the conviction. "Guilty. Today, twelve ordinary American citizens found a former president guilty of dozens of felonies. Despite his efforts to distract, delay, and deny justice arrived for Donald Trump all the same. And the rule of law prevailed," Schiff tweeted.

In high-profile cases, jury members sometimes capitalize on their experiences by making public appearances, often earning substantial amounts through book deals and media engagements. Following the O.J. Simpson trial, several jurors shared their stories. Marcia Clark, the lead prosecutor, reportedly received $4.2 million for her memoir, "Without a Doubt."

Trump's legal team has announced plans to appeal the conviction, arguing that the trial was unfair and the judge was biased. Trump himself has maintained his innocence, calling the trial a "disgrace" and vowing to continue fighting.

Judge Juan M. Merchan has scheduled Trump's sentencing for July 11, just days before the Republican National Convention where Trump is expected to be formally nominated as the party's presidential candidate for 2024. Despite the conviction, Trump's supporters remain steadfast, and his campaign has reportedly seen a surge in donations following the verdict.

The conviction's impact on Trump's political future remains uncertain. While his legal troubles may galvanize his base, they also present significant hurdles as he seeks to reclaim the presidency. Political analysts suggest that the verdict could sway independent voters.

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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

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Obama Aide on Trump Conviction: 'Honestly Surprised' - Newsweek