It is customary for a President to pardon or commutate certain individuals at the end of their term. As President Trump’s term comes to a close, he will undoubtedly observe the same practice. While Trump has already issued several pardons, he has exercised his executive power far less than any other U.S. President.
Trump’s 29 previous pardons include individuals like Susan B. Anthony, who was never previously pardoned for her part in the women’s suffrage movement, and Alice Johnson, who received life in prison for an “attempted cocaine sale.” However, his pardons also include Roger Stone, a Republican operative who of lying to the FBI about his communication with Russian officials before Trump’s election.
In his final days, experts expect Trump to issue numerous last-minute pardons. It has been speculated that Trump may issue pardons for associates and family members, and more interestingly, a possible “preemptive pardon” for himself. The possibility of a preemptive pardon has led people to speculate on what actions will be taken against Trump once he leaves office and if President Biden can or will revoke his pardon. The President had until January 20th, 2021 to finalize his decisions, but if history is any indicator of the future, it is sure to be an interesting transfer of power.
CIMA Law Group Blog 