This would be great.
When President-elect Donald Trump retakes office, he will have the full power of the presidency at his disposal, including the ability to grant pardons. While he issued 144 pardons during his first term, the number was relatively low compared to other presidents, with only George H.W. Bush granting fewer in modern history. However, as Trump prepares for his second term, the prospect of widespread pardons looms large. Here’s a look at some of the individuals who may benefit from Trump’s clemency.
Steve Bannon
One of the most high-profile figures who could receive a pardon from Trump is Steve Bannon, his former White House chief strategist. Bannon was convicted of contempt of Congress for refusing to testify before the January 6th committee. He served a brief sentence but remains a loyal ally to Trump. During his first term, Trump pardoned Bannon for his role in the “We Build the Wall” fundraising scheme, and it’s likely he will extend that clemency again in his second term.
Peter Navarro
Peter Navarro, another former Trump adviser, was sentenced to prison for contempt of Congress after refusing to cooperate with the January 6th investigation. Navarro has expressed that he is not seeking a pardon, preferring instead to continue his legal battles, but Trump could step in to offer relief.
Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira
Trump’s legal battles related to the Mar-a-Lago documents case also involve his two co-defendants, Walt Nauta and Carlos De Oliveira. Although the case against Trump was dismissed, special counsel Jack Smith continues to pursue appeals for the two men. Trump may choose to pardon them if they are convicted.
January 6 Rioters
Trump has made it clear that he would offer pardons to those who were involved in the January 6th Capitol riots. He has repeatedly promised to review their cases and grant pardons to those he considers “political prisoners,” signaling that he may act swiftly upon his return to office.
Hunter Biden
Another potential target of a Trump pardon is Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden. Hunter faces legal trouble over charges related to taxes and gun possession. Trump, when asked about the possibility of pardoning Hunter Biden, has said that he wouldn’t rule it out, drawing a stark contrast with Joe Biden’s refusal to pardon his son.
Eric Adams and George Santos
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is currently facing corruption charges, and though Adams has not directly sought a pardon, Trump has expressed sympathy for the embattled mayor. Similarly, embattled former Rep. George Santos, who faces charges for wire fraud and identity theft, could also be in line for a pardon, though Santos has denied that he’s asked for one.
Julian Assange and Edward Snowden
Trump has previously suggested that he might consider pardoning Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, who faces charges under the Espionage Act for publishing classified documents. Additionally, he has signaled openness to pardoning Edward Snowden, the former NSA contractor who leaked sensitive government information. Both of these individuals are seen by many on the right as whistleblowers who exposed government overreach.
As Trump looks ahead to his second term, the possibility of clemency for his allies—and even some controversial figures—remains a key issue. Whether he pardons individuals like Bannon, Navarro, or Assange will send a strong message about his commitment to protecting his allies and challenging the political establishment. With his track record of defying the establishment, Trump’s second term could very well be marked by a significant wave of pardons.