What's happened
Congress is advancing a constitutional amendment to increase oversight of presidential pardons. The effort aims to prevent abuses like those seen in Trump's second term, where at least $113 million in fines and penalties were erased, impacting victims and public trust. The amendment would require a supermajority vote for pardons deemed egregious.
What's behind the headline?
The proposed constitutional amendment aims to address the unchecked nature of the pardon power, which has been exploited to reward loyalty and wealth. By requiring a supermajority vote in Congress for pardons flagged for scrutiny, it will create a high barrier against abuse. This will likely increase transparency and accountability, reducing the transfer of costs from powerful offenders to vulnerable victims. The effort reflects a bipartisan recognition that the current system erodes trust in justice. It will also reinforce the principle that no one, including presidents, is above the law. The amendment's success depends on broad political consensus, but it will significantly reshape how clemency is granted, making it more subject to democratic oversight and less susceptible to corruption.
How we got here
The use of presidential pardons has historically been a unilateral power, but recent actions have raised concerns about abuse. Trump's second term has seen a surge in pardons, including controversial figures and wealthy offenders, eroding public confidence. The proposed amendment seeks to restore accountability and transparency in the pardon process.
Our analysis
The Guardian reports that Trump's second-term pardons have erased at least $113 million in fines and penalties, impacting victim support programs and fostering a 'pardon-shopping' industry benefiting wealthy offenders. The article highlights the role of lobbyists charging over $1 million for clemency and mentions controversial figures like Juan Orlando Hernández. The Independent discusses the possibility of Trump pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell, with her attorney suggesting she might get clemency, though opposition from lawmakers remains strong. The NY Post covers Hunter Biden criticizing Trump's use of pardons while acknowledging his father's unconditional pardon for him, emphasizing the ongoing debate over the fairness and reform of the pardon system.
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Donald Trump - 45th and 47th U.S. President
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who is the 47th president of the United States. A member of the Republican Party, he served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021.