Trump Considers Mass Pardons for Administration Members Before Leaving Office
Trump's Potential Pardons
Former President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of issuing extensive pardons to members of his administration prior to his departure from office, as reported by sources familiar with his comments. During a recent meeting, Trump remarked, "I'll pardon everyone who has come within 200 feet of the Oval Office." Additionally, he mentioned to advisers last year that he might hold a press conference to announce mass pardons before his term concludes. However, insiders noted that no specific offers have been made to individuals as of yet.
The presidential authority to grant pardons is one of the most expansive powers held by a US president. Throughout his current term, Trump has granted approximately 1,600 pardons and commutations, a significant increase compared to fewer than 250 during his first term. Many of these recent clemency decisions have favored political allies, donors, or individuals connected to them, often following informal interactions like social gatherings or golf outings.
Some of these pardons have faced backlash from both political parties, including one for a cryptocurrency entrepreneur associated with a firm that backed Trump's own digital currency initiative, and another for a former Honduran president found guilty of colluding with drug traffickers. Sources indicate that Trump often brings up the idea of pardons when discussing potential legal risks or congressional probes with his aides. While these comments are frequently made in jest, some advisers believe there may be a genuine intention behind them, recalling instances where Trump has acted on ideas he initially joked about.
Several aides mentioned that the topic has become a running joke within the administration. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt downplayed concerns, stating, "The Wall Street Journal should learn to take a joke; however, the President's pardon power is absolute." This discussion arises amid worries among Trump's aides regarding the possibility of Democrats regaining control of the House of Representatives in the upcoming November elections, which could trigger investigations into the administration's actions.
Democratic lawmakers have signaled their intent to examine various issues, including Trump's influence over the Justice Department, actions taken at the Department of Homeland Security, and the use of pardons. Trump has reportedly explored strategies to counter such inquiries. Ultimately, decisions regarding potential charges related to congressional subpoenas would be made by the Justice Department.
Trump's approach mirrors the controversial end-of-term pardons issued by his predecessor, Joe Biden, who granted clemency to several senior officials and family members, citing fears of politically motivated investigations. Those pardoned included his son, Hunter Biden, and public health official Anthony Fauci. Some former aides to Biden have suggested that this action set a precedent. Michael LaRosa commented, "By testing the boundaries of the pardon power, Biden cracked the door open, and we can't now complain about Donald Trump walking through it, even if he blows it wide open." At the conclusion of his first term, Trump contemplated pardoning White House officials in the wake of the January 6 Capitol attack but ultimately refrained from doing so. He later expressed to advisers that he regretted not issuing those pardons. In his current term, around 1,500 clemency grants have been awarded to individuals charged in connection with the Capitol incident. After leaving office, Trump has faced four criminal cases, including a conviction on 34 felony counts in New York, although he received no punishment, as state-level convictions cannot be pardoned by a president. Other cases were subsequently dismissed.