A pardon for a price? How Donald Trump has reimagined presidential clemency

Al JazeeraEN 9 min read 100% complete by Adam ShanksFebruary 15, 2026 at 12:20 PM

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long article 9 min

Since his second term began, President Donald Trump has issued over 1,840 acts of clemency. Experts contend that Trump's use of presidential clemency deviates from established norms, favoring the wealthy and politically connected. Beneficiaries include supporters of his MAGA movement, such as January 6th Capitol rioters, and powerful figures. This trend excludes less prominent individuals seeking justice, according to legal experts. The pardons and commutations are seen as transactional, rewarding loyalty to Trump's agenda. Critics argue this approach reflects Trump's increasing control over the pardon process, narrowing its scope to those within his circle.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Minnesota 35% University of St Thomas 40% Alexander Hamilton 50% Mark Osler ×260% US Capitol ×270% January 6, 2021 ×275% United States ×280% Donald Trump ×795%

Keywords

presidential clemency 100% pardons 90% donald trump 80% commutations 70% political allies 60% us capitol attack 50% justice system 50% executive pardons 40%

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Negative

Score: -0.40

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Al Jazeera

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90%

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