Trump Prepares Pardons for 100 More People on Day Before Term Ends... 'Self-Pardon' Unlikely

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] It is reported that U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to pardon nearly 100 people once again just before leaving office. The so-called 'self-pardon' anticipated in political circles is not expected to happen.

On the 18th (local time), CNN cited government sources and reported that President Trump is preparing to grant pardons and sentence reductions to nearly 100 people a day before his departure. According to sources, the White House held a meeting the previous day to finalize the list of pardon recipients.

CNN reported that the clemency recipients include white-collar criminals and famous rappers, but specific details have not been disclosed. According to one source, due to complaints from allies and interest groups, there was fierce competition within the White House over pardon privileges, and additions and removals from the list could continue until just before the announcement.

Among Trump's allies, there is an expectation that President Trump will pardon them as a form of repayment after leaving office. One source said, "Everything is a business deal," adding, "President Trump likes pardons because they are unilateral, and he likes to show favor so that others owe him."

However, CNN observed that the so-called self-pardon, in which President Trump pardons himself, is unlikely to occur at this time.