The jury in Donald Trump's trial over alleged hush money payments to a porn star before his 2016 presidential campaign began deliberations on Wednesday. This historic decision could dramatically impact the upcoming November election.

Following weeks of testimonies from over 20 witnesses, the 12-member jury, whose identities remain confidential, now holds Trump's fate in their hands.

After receiving final instructions from the judge, the jury started considering a verdict with significant implications not only for Trump but for the entire United States.

Trump faced charges of falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 payment made to silence porn star Stormy Daniels, who claimed to have had an affair with him, which threatened his 2016 campaign.

The political fallout of a conviction would be enormous, as Trump would become a convicted felon less than five months before the presidential election.

During closing arguments on Tuesday, Trump's defense team argued that the evidence was insufficient for a conviction, while the prosecution insisted it was overwhelming and undeniable.

Prosecutor Joshua Steinglass stated, "The defendant's intent to defraud could not be clearer," urging the jurors to use "common sense" and convict Trump.

A unanimous decision is required for a verdict. A single juror's dissent would result in a hung jury, leading to a mistrial.

If convicted, Trump could face up to four years in prison for each of the 34 charges, although legal experts doubt he would serve time without prior convictions.

A conviction would not bar Trump from running in the November election.