Key Takeaways

• The president’s pardon power became a product sold to the highest bidders.
• Wealthy inmates pay lobbyists about one million dollars to push for clemency.
• Success fees of six or seven figures kick in once the pardon is granted.
• Trump’s allies, including his son, connected lobbyists directly to the president.
• This pay-to-play scheme risks destroying equal justice under the law.

Since he entered office, Donald Trump transformed the pardon power into a business. Rather than use it sparingly, he and his team let rich inmates buy their freedom. This pattern broke the old norm that pardons serve mercy and justice. Instead, they turned the most serious presidential power into a product on sale.

In simple terms, people facing prison could pay about one million dollars to hire lobbyists close to the White House. Next, those lobbyists would push for clemency. If they succeeded, the inmate then paid a success fee of several million dollars. As a result, the pardon power became a shortcut for the ultra-rich. Meanwhile, ordinary people with small savings or no connections saw their petitions wait for years.

How Pardon Power Became a Pay-to-Play Scheme

First, a wealthy person hires a well-placed lobbyist. These lobbyists boast ties to Trump’s inner circle. Next, they promise to get a pardon or commutation. In some cases, they collect an upfront fee of around one million dollars. Then, they push the request through the White House channels. Finally, if the president signs the pardon, the inmate pays a big success fee. This fee can reach six or even seven figures.

However, this entire process sits outside the official pardon office. That office normally reviews clemency requests on merit. Instead, lobbyists use family connections and social events to secure a quick yes. Consequently, the richest inmates rise to the top of the line. Meanwhile, those with honest needs but no deep pockets stay stuck at the back of the queue.

The Binance Case and Trump’s Circle

One clear example involves Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance. He faced legal trouble over alleged money laundering. To seek clemency, Zhao’s team paid $800,000 to lobbyist Ches McDowell. Then, Trump Jr. personally introduced McDowell to the president. After that meeting, Trump granted Zhao a pardon in October 2025.

It remains unclear how much Binance or Zhao paid as the final success fee. Reports suggest it topped $5 million. Yet, the deal shows how the pardon power shifted toward high-dollar deals. Meanwhile, many lower-profile inmates saw no similar attention. This contrast highlights how money now fuels a private clemency marketplace.

Why This Erodes Equal Justice

Equal justice under law means everyone gets the same treatment. It’s a core American promise. Yet, when pardon power turns into a commodity, that promise shatters. For example, if a middle-class family cannot afford a million-dollar broker, their loved one may never get a pardon. In contrast, a billionaire jumps to the front.

Moreover, this pay-to-play system weakens faith in the presidency. When citizens believe that freedom has a price tag, trust erodes. People begin to see the White House not as a public office but as a private club. There, the cover charge sits far beyond the means of most Americans.

Indeed, lawyer Mitch Jackson warned that this market turns clemency into a product on a shelf. He noted that most families simply lack deep pockets. Consequently, their petitions linger in dusty stacks, waiting for formal review. Meanwhile, the wealthy glide through, thanks to secret deals and fast passes.

The Road Ahead for Pardon Power

First, Congress could step in. Lawmakers might hold hearings on these pay-to-play claims. They could also tighten rules around lobbying and White House contact. This approach would add layers of transparency. Next, the Justice Department could reopen cases of suspicious pardons. These reviews might reveal improper influence or possible crimes.

Meanwhile, the public can raise its voice. Citizens might demand reforms to restore equal justice. For instance, they could ask for clear guidelines on clemency. They might also call for public reports on all pardon requests and decisions. In this way, the pardon power could return to its intended role.

Finally, voters hold the ultimate power. They can support candidates who promise to end the pardon marketplace. They can push for leaders committed to fairness and transparency. Indeed, only through civic action can America reclaim a system that treats all citizens equally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the presidential pardon power?

The pardon power lets a president forgive federal crimes. It can erase sentences or convictions. Traditionally, presidents used it sparingly and on matters of mercy.

How did this pay-to-play scheme work?

Rich inmates hired lobbyists close to the president. They paid an upfront fee of about one million dollars. If the president granted the pardon, they paid a success fee of millions more.

Does this scheme break any laws?

Potentially. Selling or buying official acts may violate bribery or fraud laws. Investigations could determine if participants broke federal statutes.

What can be done to stop the pardon marketplace?

Congress can pass tougher rules on lobbying and pardons. The Justice Department can review suspicious cases. Lastly, voters can push for candidates who promise reform.