Donald Trump has reportedly discussed granting mass pardons to administration officials before leaving office, raising concerns over the use of presidential clemency powers.
Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested he may grant sweeping pardons to members of his administration before leaving office, according to a report. In one instance, he joked, “I’ll pardon everyone who has come within 200 feet of the Oval,” raising questions about the scope of potential clemency.
Sources said Trump has raised the idea in conversations with aides, particularly when concerns about possible legal exposure or investigations were discussed. Some insiders believe the remarks, though sometimes made jokingly, reflect a serious consideration of using presidential pardon powers extensively.
The report noted Trump has already issued around 1,600 pardons during his current term, drawing criticism from opponents who argue the moves are politically motivated. The White House, however, has downplayed the comments, describing them as jokes while emphasizing the president’s broad constitutional authority to grant clemency.