As President Donald Trump signals openness to issuing a pardon for Sean “Diddy” Combs, the move is already drawing political fire. Reports suggesting that Trump is considering clemency for the hip-hop mogul—currently facing federal charges—have triggered a wave of criticism from conservative media circles.
Megyn Kelly, the former Fox News anchor, took to X (formerly Twitter) to denounce the idea outright. “Trump should not pardon Diddy. He doesn’t deserve it,” she wrote, referencing Diddy’s conviction on two counts related to the transportation of individuals for prostitution. Kelly, who called Diddy a “woman abuser,” warned that such a pardon could alienate conservative voters—particularly young women—at a time when the GOP is actively trying to close gender gaps ahead of November.
The initial report from Deadline said Trump is “seriously considering” a pardon, citing sources close to the former president. When asked about the matter during a recent Oval Office briefing, Trump responded carefully. “I would certainly look at the facts if I think somebody was mistreated, whether they like me or don’t like me. It wouldn’t have any impact on me.”
Diddy’s sentencing fight raises legal, political, and cultural stakes
Diddy is scheduled to face sentencing on October 3, where he could receive up to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors, however, are pushing for a four-year sentence. In an effort to avoid jail time, Diddy’s legal team has offered a $50 million bail package, which includes passport surrender and oversight from the U.S. Pretrial Services Agency.
Meanwhile, his attorneys are also seeking a retrial. In court filings, they argue that Diddy’s conduct was misrepresented. “Mr. Combs, at most, paid to engage in voyeurism as part of a ‘swingers’ lifestyle. That does not constitute ‘prostitution’ under a properly limited definition of the statutory term.” They claim trial evidence showed Diddy hired male dancers and escorts from legitimate agencies, emphasizing that all parties involved consented and were compensated fairly.
The case continues to sit at the tense intersection of celebrity, politics, and criminal justice. For Trump, weighing a pardon for someone like Diddy carries legal and cultural baggage—along with political risk. The GOP’s next move may well depend on how this moment plays out, both in court and in the court of public opinion.
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