President Trump has granted sweeping pardons to dozens of his allies accused of trying to overturn the 2020 election. The surprise announcement came late Sunday night, with the U.S. Pardon Attorney naming Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows, and Sidney Powell among those cleared. Trump’s proclamation called the move an effort to “end a grave national injustice” and “begin national reconciliation.”
The pardons wipe away years of legal battles tied to Trump’s post-election fight and immediately reignited debate in Washington. Supporters praised the decision as long overdue, saying the prosecutions were politically motivated. Critics, however, called it an abuse of power that lets powerful figures escape accountability for undermining democracy.
Trump made clear he didn’t include himself in the list, but the timing and scope of the move drew instant national attention. The announcement echoed his earlier “No MAGA Left Behind” message, signaling he’s still standing by those who stayed loyal after 2020.