Despite the frivolous lawsuits and cries that the election was “stolen,” president Trump will leave office on January 20, 2021. Almost as certain as his departure is that he will grant a flurry of pardons on his way out the door, perhaps including trying to pardon himself. Given the breadth of the pardon power, there is little that can be done about that. Such pardons, even if controversial, will almost certainly be valid – with the possible exception of a self-pardon. But despite his anticipated best efforts, Trump will not be able to completely shield his family and colleagues – or himself – from future legal liability.
The Looming Presidential Pardons
The Looming Presidential Pardons
The Looming Presidential Pardons
Despite the frivolous lawsuits and cries that the election was “stolen,” president Trump will leave office on January 20, 2021. Almost as certain as his departure is that he will grant a flurry of pardons on his way out the door, perhaps including trying to pardon himself. Given the breadth of the pardon power, there is little that can be done about that. Such pardons, even if controversial, will almost certainly be valid – with the possible exception of a self-pardon. But despite his anticipated best efforts, Trump will not be able to completely shield his family and colleagues – or himself – from future legal liability.