Trump Moves To Pardon Himself Before Leaving Office

In other to shield himself from future consequences of his actions while in office, there are plans by President Donald Trump to pardon himself as the end of his tenure draws near.

New York Times is reporting that the controversial republican leader has broached the subject with a clutch of aides.

The newspaper claimed two anonymous sources who were familiar with the development said Trump had confided in advisers, telling them he was considering giving himself a presidential pardon.

According to the newspaper, Trump’s move has been in the pipe since November 3, adding that the president was gauging the legal and political repercussions of a self-pardon. .

However, the paper could not confirm whether he has raised the topic since his supporters invaded Capitol Hill on Wednesday, and forced a lockdown.

Vice President Mike Pence was presiding over certification of the November 3 election in Congress when the mob stormed the building in Washington.

The incident occurred after Mr. Trump addressed his supporters at a “Save America” rally where he repeated unsubstantiated claims that the election was rigged against him.

Several high-profile politicians, including House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, Senate Minority Leader, Chuck Schumer, and a top Republican congressman, Adam Kinzinger, called for Mr. Trump’s removal from office.

Between December 22 and 24, 2020, the president rolled out scores of pardons, including to his allies convicted for criminal offences.

He has long said the power to pardon himself, and seeking the views of his aides on the subject is a sign he is preparing to toe that path, the paper reported.

Mr. Trump is said to be worried that his perceived enemies will “use the levers of law enforcement to target him” after he leaves office on January 20.

(NAN)