Trump's Expansive Use of Presidential Pardons Sparks Rule-of-Law Concerns

The column asserts that Donald Trump is exploiting the presidential pardon power to protect supporters and punish dissenters, thereby distorting the concept of equal justice. It cites a wave of pardons, from Jan. 6 rioters to figures such as Steve Bannon, Michael Flynn, and Rod Blagojevich, noting that many recipients have later committed new offenses. The author highlights financial benefits tied to these clemencies, including reduced restitution obligations amounting to nearly $2 billion.

Historical examples like Gerald Ford’s Nixon pardon and Bill Clinton’s Marc Rich pardon are mentioned, but the piece maintains that Trump’s use of pardons is far more extensive and self-serving. The editorial warns that this pattern secures loyalty, buys silence, and encourages future lawbreaking by allies.