Trumps Potential Pardons: From January 6 Rioters to Julian Assange – Who Might Be Freed?
Trumps Potential Pardons: The U.S. Constitution grants presidents the unique power to pardon federal offenses, a privilege Donald Trump may soon wield again as he gears up for his second term after a victory over Kamala Harris. Political experts suggest Trump’s pardon list could include figures who have stirred considerable controversy, from January 6 rioters to public personalities like Julian Assange and Ross Ulbricht, all part of a possible strategy to rally his base and spotlight what he considers a biased legal system.
January 6 Rioters: Trump’s Support for His Base
Trump has frequently hinted at pardoning individuals linked to the January 6 Capitol riots, with his campaign noting that each case would be reviewed individually. In a July statement, Trump explained, “If they’re innocent, I would pardon them,” suggesting his view that some defendants faced undue punishment. Campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt further confirmed that these cases will be handled on a “case-by-case” basis. Since Trump’s recent election win, some defendants have even cited his statements on pardons in their ongoing court proceedings, signaling how seriously his promises resonate with his supporters.
Hunter Biden: A Surprising Possible Pardon
One of the most surprising names on Trump’s potential list is Hunter Biden, who faces federal charges related to taxes and gun possession. When conservative host Hugh Hewitt raised the topic in October, Trump didn’t dismiss the idea, remarking, “I wouldn’t take it off the books… despite what they’ve done to me.” A pardon for Biden could generate widespread reactions, underscoring Trump’s inclination to challenge perceived double standards within the justice system.
Ross Ulbricht: Supporters Hope for a Second Chance
Ross Ulbricht, the Silk Road dark web founder, could also find himself on Trump’s pardon radar. Serving a life sentence since 2015, Ulbricht’s case has become a focal point among libertarians who view his punishment as excessive. Calls to “Free Ross” have gained momentum, with his supporters sharing messages of hope on social media, confident that Trump’s potential pardon will bring Ulbricht “home in January.”
Julian Assange: The Controversial WikiLeaks Founder
Julian Assange, WikiLeaks founder, remains another high-profile figure for a possible pardon. In May 2024, Trump stated he would “give very serious consideration” to clemency for Assange, who is still facing extradition to the U.S. Assange’s supporters argue that his work was in the public interest, and Trump’s potential pardon could symbolize a stand for journalistic freedom in the face of prosecution.
Peter Navarro: Pardoning a ‘Great Patriot’
Peter Navarro, Trump’s former trade adviser, was sentenced to four months in prison for contempt of Congress after refusing to comply with a subpoena. Trump has characterized Navarro’s conviction as unfair, calling him a “great patriot” who was wrongfully prosecuted. Trump’s potential pardon of Navarro would underscore his loyalty to allies who remained steadfast during his administration.
Self-Pardon: Trump’s Own Legal Boundaries
One of the most contentious issues surrounding Trump’s clemency powers is whether he could pardon himself if necessary. While he previously downplayed the idea, legal scholars remain divided on its constitutionality. Trump’s stance has been that he has “done nothing wrong,” making a self-pardon unnecessary. However, state-level charges, such as those in New York and Georgia, would remain beyond federal jurisdiction, regardless of any self-pardon attempts, leaving some legal hurdles outside Trump’s control.
The Scope and Limits of Presidential Clemency
The clemency power provided by Article II, Section 2, Clause 1 of the Constitution grants the President significant authority in federal cases but does not erase a criminal record completely. Post-pardon, individuals may still face state-level restrictions, such as limitations on voting rights in certain states.
With Trump’s potential return to the White House, the question of who might benefit from his pardon power has sparked interest nationwide. Political observers and supporters alike are closely watching how his promises unfold, particularly concerning individuals like Assange, Ulbricht, and even Biden’s son. As the nation anticipates Trump’s next moves, these potential pardons highlight the complexities and far-reaching implications of presidential clemency.
