27 days ago
Trump defended such a move, saying Biden "gave pardons to everyone."
President Donald Trump said in an interview out Thursday that he would be open to pardoning members of his administration, pointing to former President Joe Biden’s blanket pardon to relatives and members of the administration out of concern they would be politically targeted after he left office.
"Yeah, sure, I'd do that," the president answered when asked by TIME magazine earlier this week if he was "considering pardoning members of your administration prior to the end of your term?"
The president further said that Biden "gave pardons to everyone."
Biden issued preemptive pardons to several close family members in the final minutes of his presidency in 2025, saying that his family "has been subjected to unrelenting attacks and threats, motivated solely by a desire to hurt me" and that he had "no reason to believe these attacks will end" after he left office.
#members #pardons #Trump #saying
President Donald Trump said in an interview out Thursday that he would be open to pardoning members of his administration, pointing to former President Joe Biden’s blanket pardon to relatives and members of the administration out of concern they would be politically targeted after he left office.
"Yeah, sure, I'd do that," the president answered when asked by TIME magazine earlier this week if he was "considering pardoning members of your administration prior to the end of your term?"
The president further said that Biden "gave pardons to everyone."
Biden issued preemptive pardons to several close family members in the final minutes of his presidency in 2025, saying that his family "has been subjected to unrelenting attacks and threats, motivated solely by a desire to hurt me" and that he had "no reason to believe these attacks will end" after he left office.
#members #pardons #Trump #saying
2 months ago
The Supreme Court will no longer hear an oral argument for a case centered on bond rights for noncitizens detained for lengthy periods, ruling the case moot after New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul pardoned a lawfully present Dominican citizen, who pleaded guilty to second-degree ******* ault.
Hochul pardoned Keisy Guerrero Mariano, who is identified in court documents as "Keisy GM," in late August, effectively killing the Trump administration's appeal to the Supreme Court arguing that noncitizens, including those with green card status, do not have a legal right to a bond hearing for a prolonged detention if they have committed crimes that are grounds for mandatory deportation.
Hochul, who is staunchly opposed to President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement crackdown, issued the pardon for Mariano just as the brief was due.
Federal Appeals Court Compares Trump Migrant Detention Policy To ******* anese American Internment
FILE - New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul pardoned Keisy Guerrero Mariano in late August.
#pardoned
Hochul pardoned Keisy Guerrero Mariano, who is identified in court documents as "Keisy GM," in late August, effectively killing the Trump administration's appeal to the Supreme Court arguing that noncitizens, including those with green card status, do not have a legal right to a bond hearing for a prolonged detention if they have committed crimes that are grounds for mandatory deportation.
Hochul, who is staunchly opposed to President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement crackdown, issued the pardon for Mariano just as the brief was due.
Federal Appeals Court Compares Trump Migrant Detention Policy To ******* anese American Internment
FILE - New York Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul pardoned Keisy Guerrero Mariano in late August.
#pardoned
2 months ago
Newcastle United travel to Millwall in the Carabao Cup third round on Tuesday, looking to book a place in the last 16 as they continue an unbeaten start to life under Matthias Jaissle.
A place at The Den is never straightforward for visiting Premier League sides, and the German head coach has already been warned about the hostile reception awaiting his side in Bermondsey.
Jaissle's side head into the tie sitting seventh in the Premier League after four games without defeat, though a place in the fourth round would offer a first taste of cup progress under the new head coach following last month's win over West Bromwich Albion. With a decent gap before Newcastle's next league fixture, Jaissle has options over how far he rotates his side.
Newcastle will be without Dan Burn, Joelinton and Will Osula for the trip to south-east London. Ewen Jaouen is a doubt in goal after rolling his ankle in training on 4 September, with Jaissle saying a decision on his availability will not be made until closer to kick-off. Tino Livramento, who made his first appearance since April off the bench against Bournemouth, is also not yet ready to start; asked directly if he'd be ready, Jaissle replied simply, "No."
Deadline-day arrival Matias Fernandez-Pardo is in line for his first start for the club after joining from Lille. Jacob Murphy, Jacob Ramsey, Bazoumana Toure, Aladji Bamba and Fabian Schär are among those pushing for involvement having had limited game time so far this season, while Sean Steur is likely to return to the side after a positive cameo against Bournemouth. Jaissle said of his selection: "There's always a fine line to make these decisions."
#league #start #head #bournemouth
A place at The Den is never straightforward for visiting Premier League sides, and the German head coach has already been warned about the hostile reception awaiting his side in Bermondsey.
Jaissle's side head into the tie sitting seventh in the Premier League after four games without defeat, though a place in the fourth round would offer a first taste of cup progress under the new head coach following last month's win over West Bromwich Albion. With a decent gap before Newcastle's next league fixture, Jaissle has options over how far he rotates his side.
Newcastle will be without Dan Burn, Joelinton and Will Osula for the trip to south-east London. Ewen Jaouen is a doubt in goal after rolling his ankle in training on 4 September, with Jaissle saying a decision on his availability will not be made until closer to kick-off. Tino Livramento, who made his first appearance since April off the bench against Bournemouth, is also not yet ready to start; asked directly if he'd be ready, Jaissle replied simply, "No."
Deadline-day arrival Matias Fernandez-Pardo is in line for his first start for the club after joining from Lille. Jacob Murphy, Jacob Ramsey, Bazoumana Toure, Aladji Bamba and Fabian Schär are among those pushing for involvement having had limited game time so far this season, while Sean Steur is likely to return to the side after a positive cameo against Bournemouth. Jaissle said of his selection: "There's always a fine line to make these decisions."
#league #start #head #bournemouth
2 months ago
The transfer window for Premier League and English Football League clubs will close at 23:00 BST on Tuesday.
Catch up with all the confirmed deals done on deadline day below, while you can follow the latest transfer news and gossip as it happens here.
The deadline for Scottish Premiership and Women's Super League clubs is on Thursday, at 17:00 BST and 23:00 BST respectively.
Premier League
15:00: Matias Fernandez-Pardo [Lille - Newcastle] £51.4m
#league #transfer #tuesday
Catch up with all the confirmed deals done on deadline day below, while you can follow the latest transfer news and gossip as it happens here.
The deadline for Scottish Premiership and Women's Super League clubs is on Thursday, at 17:00 BST and 23:00 BST respectively.
Premier League
15:00: Matias Fernandez-Pardo [Lille - Newcastle] £51.4m
#league #transfer #tuesday
2 months ago
Newcastle United have signed forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille for an initial £51.4m.
Fernandez-Pardo flew into Tyneside on Monday night to have a medical and sign a long-term contract.
The 21-year-old said he was "very proud to be at such a big club" following talks with head coach Matthias Jaissle.
"He really showed how much he wanted me to be here," the Belgium international said.
"In terms of my own career progression, it made complete sense to come so I didn't hesitate at all.
#jaissle
Fernandez-Pardo flew into Tyneside on Monday night to have a medical and sign a long-term contract.
The 21-year-old said he was "very proud to be at such a big club" following talks with head coach Matthias Jaissle.
"He really showed how much he wanted me to be here," the Belgium international said.
"In terms of my own career progression, it made complete sense to come so I didn't hesitate at all.
#jaissle
2 months ago
Newcastle United's search for an additional attacking reinforcement is showing no signs of slowing down, with Matthias Jaissle's side exploring several possibilities as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
Matias Fernandez-Pardo remains the No. 1 target, with Newcastle nearing an agreement with Lille, but the Magpies could have turned their attention toward another versatile attacker from Italy's Serie A.
According to Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna, Newcastle is interested in Roma's Matias Soule and contact between the parties is already underway.
"Newcastle is interested in Matías Soulé of AS Roma," Aouna reported. "Contact is ongoing between the parties."
TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey subsequently provided further details, reporting that Soule has been added to Newcastle's attacking shortlist alongside Fernandez-Pardo and Stuttgart's Bilal El Khannouss.
#matias #pardo #attacking #parties
Matias Fernandez-Pardo remains the No. 1 target, with Newcastle nearing an agreement with Lille, but the Magpies could have turned their attention toward another versatile attacker from Italy's Serie A.
According to Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna, Newcastle is interested in Roma's Matias Soule and contact between the parties is already underway.
"Newcastle is interested in Matías Soulé of AS Roma," Aouna reported. "Contact is ongoing between the parties."
TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey subsequently provided further details, reporting that Soule has been added to Newcastle's attacking shortlist alongside Fernandez-Pardo and Stuttgart's Bilal El Khannouss.
#matias #pardo #attacking #parties
2 months ago
Manchester City open talks with Chelsea to sign Enzo Fernandez, ***** nal explore move for Malick Fofana and Gunners also still interested in signing Julian Alvarez.
Manchester City have opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea to sign 25-year-old Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. (Sky Italy)
Arsenal are exploring a move for 21-year-old Lyon and Belgium winger Malick Fofana before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. (RMC Sport - in French)
The Gunners are also still interested in signing Atletico Madrid and Argentina forward Julian Alvarez and are actively working to make a potential move to London easier for the 26-year-old and his entourage. (Teamtalk)
Newcastle have agreed a fee with Lille to sign 21-year-old Belgium midfielder Matias Fernandez-Pardo on a five-year deal. (Athletic - subscription required)
#year #move
Manchester City have opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea to sign 25-year-old Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. (Sky Italy)
Arsenal are exploring a move for 21-year-old Lyon and Belgium winger Malick Fofana before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. (RMC Sport - in French)
The Gunners are also still interested in signing Atletico Madrid and Argentina forward Julian Alvarez and are actively working to make a potential move to London easier for the 26-year-old and his entourage. (Teamtalk)
Newcastle have agreed a fee with Lille to sign 21-year-old Belgium midfielder Matias Fernandez-Pardo on a five-year deal. (Athletic - subscription required)
#year #move
2 months ago
Manchester City open talks with Chelsea to sign Enzo Fernandez, ******* nal explore move for Malick Fofana and Gunners also still interested in signing Julian Alvarez.
Manchester City have opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea to sign 25-year-old Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. (Sky Italy)
Arsenal are exploring a move for 21-year-old Lyon and Belgium winger Malick Fofana before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. (RMC Sport - in French)
The Gunners are also still interested in signing Atletico Madrid and Argentina forward Julian Alvarez and are actively working to make a potential move to London easier for the 26-year-old and his entourage. (Teamtalk)
Newcastle have agreed a fee with Lille to sign 21-year-old Belgium midfielder Matias Fernandez-Pardo on a five-year deal. (Athletic - subscription required)
#year #sign
Manchester City have opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea to sign 25-year-old Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. (Sky Italy)
Arsenal are exploring a move for 21-year-old Lyon and Belgium winger Malick Fofana before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. (RMC Sport - in French)
The Gunners are also still interested in signing Atletico Madrid and Argentina forward Julian Alvarez and are actively working to make a potential move to London easier for the 26-year-old and his entourage. (Teamtalk)
Newcastle have agreed a fee with Lille to sign 21-year-old Belgium midfielder Matias Fernandez-Pardo on a five-year deal. (Athletic - subscription required)
#year #sign
2 months ago
ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia prison officials plan to execute a man next month who was convicted of fatally shooting two real estate agents in Atlanta's suburbs more than two decades ago.
Stacey Humphreys, 53, was convicted of malice murder in the 2003 killings of 33-year-old Cyndi Williams and 21-year-old Lori Brown. He is set to receive a lethal injection at the state prison near Jackson at 7 p.m. on Sept. 16, according to the Department of Corrections.
Humphreys would be the first person executed in Georgia this year. The death penalty in the state has largely been tied up in litigation over an agreement related to the coronavirus pandemic that defense lawyers contend temporarily shields many death row residents from execution. The last execution in the state was in March 2024.
Humphreys was previously scheduled to die last December, but the execution was halted after his lawyers filed a petition asking a judge to order two members of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles to recuse themselves from hearing his clemency petition. Humphreys' lawyers argued that the two parole board members had conflicts of interest because they had played roles during his trial.
Kimberly McCoy, one of the board members, was a victim advocate with the Cobb County district attorney's office at the time of Humphreys' trial and was ****** igned to work with the victims in the case. The other, Wayne Bennett, was the sheriff in Glynn County, where the trial was moved because of pretrial publicity, and Humphreys' lawyers argued he oversaw security for the jurors and Humphreys himself during the case.
#year #execution
Stacey Humphreys, 53, was convicted of malice murder in the 2003 killings of 33-year-old Cyndi Williams and 21-year-old Lori Brown. He is set to receive a lethal injection at the state prison near Jackson at 7 p.m. on Sept. 16, according to the Department of Corrections.
Humphreys would be the first person executed in Georgia this year. The death penalty in the state has largely been tied up in litigation over an agreement related to the coronavirus pandemic that defense lawyers contend temporarily shields many death row residents from execution. The last execution in the state was in March 2024.
Humphreys was previously scheduled to die last December, but the execution was halted after his lawyers filed a petition asking a judge to order two members of the State Board of Pardons and Paroles to recuse themselves from hearing his clemency petition. Humphreys' lawyers argued that the two parole board members had conflicts of interest because they had played roles during his trial.
Kimberly McCoy, one of the board members, was a victim advocate with the Cobb County district attorney's office at the time of Humphreys' trial and was ****** igned to work with the victims in the case. The other, Wayne Bennett, was the sheriff in Glynn County, where the trial was moved because of pretrial publicity, and Humphreys' lawyers argued he oversaw security for the jurors and Humphreys himself during the case.
#year #execution
2 months ago
Newcastle United are reportedly set to submit their final bid to LOSC Lille in their efforts to sign Matias Fernandez-Pardo (21), according to information from journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
After an initial bid of around €45m was dismissed by the Dogues' management, the Magpies are expected to return to the fray in the coming hours with an increased offer of €60m, including bonuses.
This sum could well prompt Olivier Létang, Lille's chairman – who had not necessarily intended to part ways with the Belgian winger before the transfer window closed – to reconsider his position. However, given Fernandez-Pardo's desire to leave France and the financial incentives put forward by Newcastle in their bid to secure his services, the situation could well be up in the air.
Regarded as one of LOSC's greatest talents, the 21-year-old Belgian international made 41 appearances in all competitions last season, finding the net eight times and providing seven **** ists.
GFFN | Léo Aschi
#well
After an initial bid of around €45m was dismissed by the Dogues' management, the Magpies are expected to return to the fray in the coming hours with an increased offer of €60m, including bonuses.
This sum could well prompt Olivier Létang, Lille's chairman – who had not necessarily intended to part ways with the Belgian winger before the transfer window closed – to reconsider his position. However, given Fernandez-Pardo's desire to leave France and the financial incentives put forward by Newcastle in their bid to secure his services, the situation could well be up in the air.
Regarded as one of LOSC's greatest talents, the 21-year-old Belgian international made 41 appearances in all competitions last season, finding the net eight times and providing seven **** ists.
GFFN | Léo Aschi
#well
2 months ago
Over the weekend, it was claimed that RB Leipzig had made an offer of up to €33 million, including bonuses, for Lille and Belgium forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
However, Sky Germany has since reported that the offer was deemed too low by Lille, who have "bigger offers on the table".
One of these offers has seemingly come from Newcastle, with L'Équipe reporting that the Magpies have tabled a €40 million bid for the 21-year-old Belgium international.
Time will tell whether that will be enough to convince Lille to sell – and whether Leipzig will be willing to raise their offer to that level.
As reported by Sky, Die Roten Bullen will pull out of the transfer if Lille's asking price becomes "exorbitant".
#offer #Belgium #million
However, Sky Germany has since reported that the offer was deemed too low by Lille, who have "bigger offers on the table".
One of these offers has seemingly come from Newcastle, with L'Équipe reporting that the Magpies have tabled a €40 million bid for the 21-year-old Belgium international.
Time will tell whether that will be enough to convince Lille to sell – and whether Leipzig will be willing to raise their offer to that level.
As reported by Sky, Die Roten Bullen will pull out of the transfer if Lille's asking price becomes "exorbitant".
#offer #Belgium #million
2 months ago
Newcastle United have reportedly made a bid to sign promising Belgian forward Matías Fernández-Pardo.
French side Lille are keen to hang on to Fernández-Pardo but according to L'Equipe, the 21-year-old Belgian is keen to leave the club this summer after having previously been linked with a move to Atlético de Madrid.
The Magpies are said to have submitted a €40 million (approx £34.2 million) bid for the player who featured off the bench three times for Belgium at this summer's World Cup.
Fernández-Pardo initially joined Lille from Gent at the start of the 2024/25 season and has since featured 67 times for the club in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and making nine ****** ists.
#keen
French side Lille are keen to hang on to Fernández-Pardo but according to L'Equipe, the 21-year-old Belgian is keen to leave the club this summer after having previously been linked with a move to Atlético de Madrid.
The Magpies are said to have submitted a €40 million (approx £34.2 million) bid for the player who featured off the bench three times for Belgium at this summer's World Cup.
Fernández-Pardo initially joined Lille from Gent at the start of the 2024/25 season and has since featured 67 times for the club in all competitions, scoring 12 goals and making nine ****** ists.
#keen
2 months ago
RB Leipzig have officially submitted a bid worth €35m plus add-ons for 21-year-old Belgian forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo, according to Fabrizio Romano.Fernandez-Pardo can play as a center forward or as a winger on either side. He joined Lille from Gent in 2024 and has made 51 Ligue 1 appearances, scoring 12 goals and providing eight ****** ists. He has also represented the Belgium national team, making five appearances for The Red Devils after passing through the youth teams. Previously, the player had notified his club Lille that he wants to leave, but he was told that he won't be allowed to depart this summer unless a hefty offer is received.GGFN | Brook Genene
RB Leipzig seem to be strengthening their forward line, with Christopher Nkunku also set to return to the Bundesliga on loan with an option to buy. Leipzig sold 19-year-old talented winger Yan Diomande to Real Madrid for €125 m and are building their attack wisely following the mega deal. They will be hoping these possible additions, together with new head coach Martín Demichelis, will enable them to challenge for a top-four finish.
#pardo #year #winger #matias
RB Leipzig seem to be strengthening their forward line, with Christopher Nkunku also set to return to the Bundesliga on loan with an option to buy. Leipzig sold 19-year-old talented winger Yan Diomande to Real Madrid for €125 m and are building their attack wisely following the mega deal. They will be hoping these possible additions, together with new head coach Martín Demichelis, will enable them to challenge for a top-four finish.
#pardo #year #winger #matias
2 months ago
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has signed into law a measure that would introduce a conditional pardon for thousands of Kurdish militants as part of a government peace effort with the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK.
The measure was published in the Official Gazette on Tuesday. It will only come into force after Turkey's National Security Council confirms that the group has fully dissolved itself and disarmed.
Parliament approved the bill overwhelmingly last week. It would suspend certain prison sentences for convicted PKK members and postpone ongoing investigations and trials against others for five or 10 years, depending on the severity of the crime. Authorities would drop the cases against the individuals if they don't re-offend during those periods.
The legislation also establishes a committee to oversee the group's disarmament, with its first meeting expected next week.
Last year, the PKK — considered a terrorist organization by Turkey and its Western allies — announced its decision to disband, following a call by its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan. Ocalan and other key PKK figures are excluded from the pardon.
#recep
The measure was published in the Official Gazette on Tuesday. It will only come into force after Turkey's National Security Council confirms that the group has fully dissolved itself and disarmed.
Parliament approved the bill overwhelmingly last week. It would suspend certain prison sentences for convicted PKK members and postpone ongoing investigations and trials against others for five or 10 years, depending on the severity of the crime. Authorities would drop the cases against the individuals if they don't re-offend during those periods.
The legislation also establishes a committee to oversee the group's disarmament, with its first meeting expected next week.
Last year, the PKK — considered a terrorist organization by Turkey and its Western allies — announced its decision to disband, following a call by its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan. Ocalan and other key PKK figures are excluded from the pardon.
#recep
2 months ago
(Corrects the spelling of the name in paragraph 1 from Success Masra to Succes Masra)
N'DJAMENA, Aug 14 (Reuters) - Chad's presidency said in a statement that President Mahamat Idriss Deby has pardoned his main rival and opposition leader Succes Masra, who has been in jail for more than a year for inciting violence and complicity to murder.
• Masra, a former prime minister, was sentenced to 20 years and fined 1 billion CFA francs ($1.77 million) last year in a trial that was criticized by human rights activists as politically motivated.
• Masra will be released in the coming days, the statement said, after the presidency agreed to a request for a pardon submitted by his attorneys.
• Masra was internationally recognized as the most vocal figure in the opposition. He will be freed along with eight other political figures, the statement said.
#presidency #success #reuters
N'DJAMENA, Aug 14 (Reuters) - Chad's presidency said in a statement that President Mahamat Idriss Deby has pardoned his main rival and opposition leader Succes Masra, who has been in jail for more than a year for inciting violence and complicity to murder.
• Masra, a former prime minister, was sentenced to 20 years and fined 1 billion CFA francs ($1.77 million) last year in a trial that was criticized by human rights activists as politically motivated.
• Masra will be released in the coming days, the statement said, after the presidency agreed to a request for a pardon submitted by his attorneys.
• Masra was internationally recognized as the most vocal figure in the opposition. He will be freed along with eight other political figures, the statement said.
#presidency #success #reuters
2 months ago
Dr. Anthony Fauci on Friday declined a request to appear voluntarily before a second Senate panel after majority Republicans on the Homeland Security Committee voted along partisan lines last week to hold the longtime infectious disease expert in contempt.
In a pointed letter to Sen. Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican, a lawyer for the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said any effort to compel him to appear before a Senate subcommittee, after a contentious July 29 hearing, would be to "impermissibly harass or degrade Dr. Fauci for political purposes."
During the July hearing on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination 100 times, prompting the Aug. 6 contempt vote and setting up a referral to the Justice Department for potential investigation over whether he had properly exercised his constitutional rights.
Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, the committee chairman who pressed for the contempt finding, said the constitutional protection did not apply because Democratic President Joe Biden had issued a preemptive pardon to Fauci, and he did not need to be concerned about potential prosecution.
Paul has long accused Fauci of misleading the public during the pandemic and the July hearing was the latest episode in his highly publicized confrontations with him. Paul has repeatedly called for Fauci to be prosecuted and imprisoned.
#contempt #senate #republican
In a pointed letter to Sen. Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican, a lawyer for the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said any effort to compel him to appear before a Senate subcommittee, after a contentious July 29 hearing, would be to "impermissibly harass or degrade Dr. Fauci for political purposes."
During the July hearing on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination 100 times, prompting the Aug. 6 contempt vote and setting up a referral to the Justice Department for potential investigation over whether he had properly exercised his constitutional rights.
Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, the committee chairman who pressed for the contempt finding, said the constitutional protection did not apply because Democratic President Joe Biden had issued a preemptive pardon to Fauci, and he did not need to be concerned about potential prosecution.
Paul has long accused Fauci of misleading the public during the pandemic and the July hearing was the latest episode in his highly publicized confrontations with him. Paul has repeatedly called for Fauci to be prosecuted and imprisoned.
#contempt #senate #republican
3 months ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced Sunday that his new White House counsel will be Will Scharf, the staff secretary who as the Trump-appointed head of the National Capital Planning Commission helped secure approval for the $400 million ballroom project.
Trump said that, beginning Sept. 1, Scharf will be replacing David Warrington, who will be leaving the administration to join the private sector. Trump noted that Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented him in a number of cases, including at the Supreme Court.
"Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!"
The shakeup in the White House counsel's office comes at a critical juncture — just months ahead of the midterm elections, where Trump's Republican Party will be fighting to hold on to control of Congress. Democrats have vowed to pursue investigations into Trump and his administration if they are successful in November.
The White House counsel's job is to advise on legal and policy questions related to the presidency. The office is the primary White House contact for the Justice Department, and it handles presidential pardons, works on judicial appointments and reviews legislation. The office also helps investigate and manage congressional investigations into the administration and lawsuits against the president when he is sued in his official capacity.
#washington
Trump said that, beginning Sept. 1, Scharf will be replacing David Warrington, who will be leaving the administration to join the private sector. Trump noted that Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented him in a number of cases, including at the Supreme Court.
"Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!"
The shakeup in the White House counsel's office comes at a critical juncture — just months ahead of the midterm elections, where Trump's Republican Party will be fighting to hold on to control of Congress. Democrats have vowed to pursue investigations into Trump and his administration if they are successful in November.
The White House counsel's job is to advise on legal and policy questions related to the presidency. The office is the primary White House contact for the Justice Department, and it handles presidential pardons, works on judicial appointments and reviews legislation. The office also helps investigate and manage congressional investigations into the administration and lawsuits against the president when he is sued in his official capacity.
#washington
3 months ago
By Kanishka Singh
WASHINGTON, Aug 7 (Reuters) - The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said on Friday it was moving to dismiss an insider trading lawsuit against Terren Peizer, a former healthcare executive who was convicted of insider trading by a federal jury in 2024 and then pardoned by President Donald Trump.
Here are the details:
• In 2023, Peizer, 65, the founder and former chief executive of healthcare company Ontrak, was charged by the Department of Justice with insider trading.
• The SEC also launched civil insider trading charges against him in a parallel action.
#peizer #executive #kanishka #reuters
WASHINGTON, Aug 7 (Reuters) - The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission said on Friday it was moving to dismiss an insider trading lawsuit against Terren Peizer, a former healthcare executive who was convicted of insider trading by a federal jury in 2024 and then pardoned by President Donald Trump.
Here are the details:
• In 2023, Peizer, 65, the founder and former chief executive of healthcare company Ontrak, was charged by the Department of Justice with insider trading.
• The SEC also launched civil insider trading charges against him in a parallel action.
#peizer #executive #kanishka #reuters
3 months ago
Mister Rodgers's neighborhood was not a happy place on Monday.
Aaron Rodgers took the opportunity of a live interview with The Pat McAfee Show to eviscerate a "cowardly" Anthony Fauci, "gutless" ESPN, and other enemies, real or imagined.
This was Michael Corleone at the end of The Godfather settling all family business. It was gonzo but wildly entertaining sports TV. When McAfee & Co. tried to gently steer the 42-year-old football legend to safer topics, he ran right over them. ProFootballTalk wrote the four-time MVP took a "flamethrower" to Fauci and ESPN. But they weren't alone. Here are seven targets who took fire from Rodgers's blunderbuss:
Back in 2021, Rodgers was publicly roasted for refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Turnabout's fair play. Rodgers immediately took aim at Fauci, calling him an "absolute coward" for pleading the Fifth Amendment more than 100 times before the U.S. Senate last week. "Are you kidding me? You got a pardon, and you plead over 100 times? What are you scared of, Tony?" asked Rodgers. "I thought you were the science?—'I am science.' And you get up there, and you can't answer a question? What are we doing?"
Rodgers was similarly displeased with ESPN's coverage of his vaccination status and other controversies in recent years. What a coincidence. He used ESPN's own air to call out McAfee's business partner as a "gutless organization" with "no integrity," while the host squirmed uncomfortably. According to Rodgers, now that he's been vindicated in the COVID debate and reconciled with his family, ESPN's reporters have nothing left to bash him over. "I just don't care anymore," he said. "I cared a little bit. Now, I don't care at all."
#took #espn #covid #times
Aaron Rodgers took the opportunity of a live interview with The Pat McAfee Show to eviscerate a "cowardly" Anthony Fauci, "gutless" ESPN, and other enemies, real or imagined.
This was Michael Corleone at the end of The Godfather settling all family business. It was gonzo but wildly entertaining sports TV. When McAfee & Co. tried to gently steer the 42-year-old football legend to safer topics, he ran right over them. ProFootballTalk wrote the four-time MVP took a "flamethrower" to Fauci and ESPN. But they weren't alone. Here are seven targets who took fire from Rodgers's blunderbuss:
Back in 2021, Rodgers was publicly roasted for refusing to take the COVID-19 vaccine. Turnabout's fair play. Rodgers immediately took aim at Fauci, calling him an "absolute coward" for pleading the Fifth Amendment more than 100 times before the U.S. Senate last week. "Are you kidding me? You got a pardon, and you plead over 100 times? What are you scared of, Tony?" asked Rodgers. "I thought you were the science?—'I am science.' And you get up there, and you can't answer a question? What are we doing?"
Rodgers was similarly displeased with ESPN's coverage of his vaccination status and other controversies in recent years. What a coincidence. He used ESPN's own air to call out McAfee's business partner as a "gutless organization" with "no integrity," while the host squirmed uncomfortably. According to Rodgers, now that he's been vindicated in the COVID debate and reconciled with his family, ESPN's reporters have nothing left to bash him over. "I just don't care anymore," he said. "I cared a little bit. Now, I don't care at all."
#took #espn #covid #times
3 months ago
It really is a "full circle" year for Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
At a time when Rodgers was seemingly creating a kinder, gentler vibe as he embarks on his final year in the NFL, Rodgers brought the knives out during a Monday appearance on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show.
Rodgers started by taking the Fifth Amendment in response to McAfee's first question. Rodgers then went off on Dr. Anthony Fauci, who last week repeatedly invoked the Fifth Amendment in testimony before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
"You got a pardon, and you're in front of — and you pleaded [the Fifth] over 100 times?" Rodgers said. "What are you scared of, Tony? I thought you were the science. I thought you [were], 'I am science.' And you get up there and you can't answer a question?"
The vitriol extended to ESPN, the owner of the channel on which he was appearing.
#question #science
At a time when Rodgers was seemingly creating a kinder, gentler vibe as he embarks on his final year in the NFL, Rodgers brought the knives out during a Monday appearance on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show.
Rodgers started by taking the Fifth Amendment in response to McAfee's first question. Rodgers then went off on Dr. Anthony Fauci, who last week repeatedly invoked the Fifth Amendment in testimony before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
"You got a pardon, and you're in front of — and you pleaded [the Fifth] over 100 times?" Rodgers said. "What are you scared of, Tony? I thought you were the science. I thought you [were], 'I am science.' And you get up there and you can't answer a question?"
The vitriol extended to ESPN, the owner of the channel on which he was appearing.
#question #science
3 months ago
"The Pat McAfee Show" aired live from Pittsburgh Steelers training camp on Monday with regular guest Aaron Rodgers joining the host for an interview. The Steelers quarterback is entering what he has said will be his final season before he retires from the NFL. With that in mind, McAfee began the interview by asking Rodgers, "Is everything better? Is everything funner? is everything more awesome?"
Rodgers responded to that question by saying, "I'm pleading the fifth." As McAfee laughed, Rodgers then launched into a personal attack on Anthony Faucci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who was the subject of a contentious congressional hearing last week.
MORE: Aaron Rodgers says he battled flu-like illness before Steelers' wild-card loss to Texans
"Like that absolute coward Tony Faucci," said Rodgers. "Absolute coward. Are you kidding me? You got a pardon and your in front of the and you pleaded over 100 times? At the White House? What are you scared of Tony? I thought you were the science. I thought you… I am science? And how much did the network spend on that? How much time did they spend on my responses every week? On my vaccination status? On Taylor and Travis's wedding? Did they do even a minute? Did they do even a minute on Tony Faucci? No, I bet they didn't."
Rodgers also questioned McAfee about ESPN's coverage of the Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel story. McAfee's responses varied from laughter to "my network?" All-in-all, a great couple minutes of content to appear on ESPN if you're writing about sports media.
#everything
Rodgers responded to that question by saying, "I'm pleading the fifth." As McAfee laughed, Rodgers then launched into a personal attack on Anthony Faucci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases who was the subject of a contentious congressional hearing last week.
MORE: Aaron Rodgers says he battled flu-like illness before Steelers' wild-card loss to Texans
"Like that absolute coward Tony Faucci," said Rodgers. "Absolute coward. Are you kidding me? You got a pardon and your in front of the and you pleaded over 100 times? At the White House? What are you scared of Tony? I thought you were the science. I thought you… I am science? And how much did the network spend on that? How much time did they spend on my responses every week? On my vaccination status? On Taylor and Travis's wedding? Did they do even a minute? Did they do even a minute on Tony Faucci? No, I bet they didn't."
Rodgers also questioned McAfee about ESPN's coverage of the Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel story. McAfee's responses varied from laughter to "my network?" All-in-all, a great couple minutes of content to appear on ESPN if you're writing about sports media.
#everything
3 months ago
Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith said Thursday that former White House chief medical adviser Anthony Fauci should have answered lawmakers' questions during the hostile Senate hearing earlier this week instead of invoking his Fifth Amendment rights.
Smith argued that Fauci owed the public an explanation after serving as the face of the nation's COVID-19 response.
"As it strictly pertains to the coronavirus pandemic, my attitude is, with you being the face that you have been, you can't show up on Capitol Hill and plead the Fifth 111 times," he told NewsNation's Chris Cuomo. "You just can't do that. That's not right. You've got to answer some questions."
During a three-hour hearing before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Wednesday, Fauci pleaded the Fifth 111 times as Republicans blasted him over his handling of the pandemic and accused the doctor of covering up the U.S.'s involvement in gain-of-function research that could have caused the spread of the virus.
Smith acknowledged that Fauci, who led the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for nearly 40 years, may have had a legitimate legal reason to remain silent — pointing to a pardon he received from former President Biden on his final day in office for potential offenses between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025.
#smith
Smith argued that Fauci owed the public an explanation after serving as the face of the nation's COVID-19 response.
"As it strictly pertains to the coronavirus pandemic, my attitude is, with you being the face that you have been, you can't show up on Capitol Hill and plead the Fifth 111 times," he told NewsNation's Chris Cuomo. "You just can't do that. That's not right. You've got to answer some questions."
During a three-hour hearing before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Wednesday, Fauci pleaded the Fifth 111 times as Republicans blasted him over his handling of the pandemic and accused the doctor of covering up the U.S.'s involvement in gain-of-function research that could have caused the spread of the virus.
Smith acknowledged that Fauci, who led the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for nearly 40 years, may have had a legitimate legal reason to remain silent — pointing to a pardon he received from former President Biden on his final day in office for potential offenses between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025.
#smith
3 months ago
While others spend their summers firefighting, Sunderland are quietly and calmly building. Stable ownership, a united dressing room and a coaching staff fully invested in the project have turned the club into one players want to join and more importantly, want to remain.
In years gone by, the reality was very much the opposite; Sunderland were always the club that paid over the odds for bang average players that didn't want to live in the North East but wanted to chase the bright lights of London, or live in the mansions of Cheshire.
Gone are the days of Lee Congerton, Roberto de Fanti and Jim Rodwell struggling through transfer windows under the stewardship of Ellis Short, Stewart Donald and — pardon my French — Charlie Methven, as well as paying over the odds for players like Modibo Diakite, Jozy Altidore, Jack Rodwell and Will Grigg.
Since Kyril Louis-Dreyfus took over, bringing in Kristjaan Speakman alongside a new transfer model, focussing on bringing in young players, realising their potential and selling at a profit, the whole culture of the club has done a full 180, with a squad full of players that want to be at the club, and fewer and fewer instances of our top players searching for moves elsewhere.
Whilst we had a concerning week or so given Chelsea's pursuit of Granit Xhaka in June, the club showed tremendous resolve in keeping hold of the captain and of convincing him that Sunderland is the right place to be.
#club #sunderland #rodwell #odds
In years gone by, the reality was very much the opposite; Sunderland were always the club that paid over the odds for bang average players that didn't want to live in the North East but wanted to chase the bright lights of London, or live in the mansions of Cheshire.
Gone are the days of Lee Congerton, Roberto de Fanti and Jim Rodwell struggling through transfer windows under the stewardship of Ellis Short, Stewart Donald and — pardon my French — Charlie Methven, as well as paying over the odds for players like Modibo Diakite, Jozy Altidore, Jack Rodwell and Will Grigg.
Since Kyril Louis-Dreyfus took over, bringing in Kristjaan Speakman alongside a new transfer model, focussing on bringing in young players, realising their potential and selling at a profit, the whole culture of the club has done a full 180, with a squad full of players that want to be at the club, and fewer and fewer instances of our top players searching for moves elsewhere.
Whilst we had a concerning week or so given Chelsea's pursuit of Granit Xhaka in June, the club showed tremendous resolve in keeping hold of the captain and of convincing him that Sunderland is the right place to be.
#club #sunderland #rodwell #odds
3 months ago
Charlamagne Tha God said Dr. Anthony Fauci came across as "suspicious" and only made "conspiracy theorists" happy with his Senate hearing, where he invoked the Fifth Amendment more than 100 times.
On Thursday's The Breakfast Club, Charlamagne found himself a little less supportive of Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, than his co-hosts.
"Y'all don't think it's fishy that he got a pardon? Why did he need a pardon?" Charlamagne asked at one point.
The radio host said Fauci's refusal to answer any questions was "suspicious" and he dismissed the idea that the longtime health official could be "trapped" if he didn't do anything wrong.
Charlamagne said:
#pardon
On Thursday's The Breakfast Club, Charlamagne found himself a little less supportive of Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, than his co-hosts.
"Y'all don't think it's fishy that he got a pardon? Why did he need a pardon?" Charlamagne asked at one point.
The radio host said Fauci's refusal to answer any questions was "suspicious" and he dismissed the idea that the longtime health official could be "trapped" if he didn't do anything wrong.
Charlamagne said:
#pardon
3 months ago
Arsenal have developed a strong relationship with Lille in recent years, completing several deals with the Ligue 1 club. The Gunners have signed players such as Nicolas Pepe and Gabriel from Lille, with the Brazilian defender remaining an important member of their squad.
The current **** nal team is considered one of the strongest in football after achieving success in the league and reaching the Champions League final last season. The Gunners continue to prove they are among the teams to beat and are determined to strengthen their squad further before the new campaign begins.
Arsenal are now considering another potential deal with Lille, with a report from L'Equipe claiming that they have shown strong interest in attacker Matias Fernandez-Pardo as they look to improve their squad.
The 21-year-old enjoyed an impressive season last term, with his performances helping him earn recognition from Belgium as he was included in their World Cup squad. He could now find himself competing for a place in **** nal's team if the transfer is completed.
The Gunners have been monitoring Fernandez-Pardo for several months and believe he has the qualities needed to become a valuable addition to their squad. The report suggests that **** nal could approach the player in the coming week as they continue their recruitment plans.
#arsenal #squad
The current **** nal team is considered one of the strongest in football after achieving success in the league and reaching the Champions League final last season. The Gunners continue to prove they are among the teams to beat and are determined to strengthen their squad further before the new campaign begins.
Arsenal are now considering another potential deal with Lille, with a report from L'Equipe claiming that they have shown strong interest in attacker Matias Fernandez-Pardo as they look to improve their squad.
The 21-year-old enjoyed an impressive season last term, with his performances helping him earn recognition from Belgium as he was included in their World Cup squad. He could now find himself competing for a place in **** nal's team if the transfer is completed.
The Gunners have been monitoring Fernandez-Pardo for several months and believe he has the qualities needed to become a valuable addition to their squad. The report suggests that **** nal could approach the player in the coming week as they continue their recruitment plans.
#arsenal #squad
3 months ago
Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images
Regis Testelin and Loic Tanzi report for L'Equipe that Matias Fernandez-Pardo would like to leave Lille this summer, and **** nal are on a list of clubs with an interest in him.
The Gunners aren't the only ones in the race, with Liverpool, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid also all reportedly after the striker. But it may not matter, as Lille president Olivier Letang is insisting Fernandez-Pardo isn't leaving.
"The player is under contract until 2029, and his departure is not an issue," Letang said. "We are counting on him, he knows that, and we have been very clear with him."
Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images
#getty #fernandez #regis
Regis Testelin and Loic Tanzi report for L'Equipe that Matias Fernandez-Pardo would like to leave Lille this summer, and **** nal are on a list of clubs with an interest in him.
The Gunners aren't the only ones in the race, with Liverpool, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid also all reportedly after the striker. But it may not matter, as Lille president Olivier Letang is insisting Fernandez-Pardo isn't leaving.
"The player is under contract until 2029, and his departure is not an issue," Letang said. "We are counting on him, he knows that, and we have been very clear with him."
Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images
#getty #fernandez #regis
3 months ago
Ben Affleck has joined the list of celebrity winners of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
The Argo star took home the top prize with help from Jeopardy! champion Jamie Ding.
Affleck conquered the $1 million question almost exactly one year after his Good Will Hunting co-star and best friend Matt Damon did the same. Damon was similarly paired with Jeopardy! wiz and current host Ken Jennings, who helped him reach the top prize for charity.
The money from Affleck and Ding's victory will go toward Affleck's Eastern Congo Initiative, which is dedicated to supporting the people living in the African region.
In the final question, Affleck and Ding had to guess which turkeys were not pardoned by a US president: Peanut ****** er & Jelly; Tater & Tot; Mac & Cheese; or Spaghetti & Meatball. The pair used their lifeline to ask host Jimmy Kimmel, who guessed the answer as Spaghetti & Meatball.
"I would bet on Jimmy," Affleck agreed. "I would go for it."
#affleck #spaghetti #star #prize
The Argo star took home the top prize with help from Jeopardy! champion Jamie Ding.
Affleck conquered the $1 million question almost exactly one year after his Good Will Hunting co-star and best friend Matt Damon did the same. Damon was similarly paired with Jeopardy! wiz and current host Ken Jennings, who helped him reach the top prize for charity.
The money from Affleck and Ding's victory will go toward Affleck's Eastern Congo Initiative, which is dedicated to supporting the people living in the African region.
In the final question, Affleck and Ding had to guess which turkeys were not pardoned by a US president: Peanut ****** er & Jelly; Tater & Tot; Mac & Cheese; or Spaghetti & Meatball. The pair used their lifeline to ask host Jimmy Kimmel, who guessed the answer as Spaghetti & Meatball.
"I would bet on Jimmy," Affleck agreed. "I would go for it."
#affleck #spaghetti #star #prize
3 months ago
Dr. Anthony Fauci ran point as the COVID-19 explainer-in-chief under two different administrations, steering policy and messaging on the virus that rattled the country and world for years.
But there is one thing in all of his media appearances, profiles, interviews and congressional hearings that Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., contended Fauci never said that he was sorry.
"I mean, I'd like to hear him say he's sorry," Paul said. "Can he say he is sorry for funding — the research was dangerous research in China? Almost everybody agrees with that."
Exclusive: Biden Pardon Won't Shield Fauci If He Lies To Congress, Comer Says
Dr. Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, arrives to testify before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic at the Rayburn House Office Building on June 3, 2024, in Washington, D.C.
#sorry #China
But there is one thing in all of his media appearances, profiles, interviews and congressional hearings that Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., contended Fauci never said that he was sorry.
"I mean, I'd like to hear him say he's sorry," Paul said. "Can he say he is sorry for funding — the research was dangerous research in China? Almost everybody agrees with that."
Exclusive: Biden Pardon Won't Shield Fauci If He Lies To Congress, Comer Says
Dr. Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, arrives to testify before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic at the Rayburn House Office Building on June 3, 2024, in Washington, D.C.
#sorry #China
3 months ago
It didn't take long for the Chicago Blackhawks to express interest in free agent Patrick Kane.
According to Kane in an interview on Monday's "Pardon My Take" in Chicago, Blackhawks owner Danny Wirtz made an "emotional call" to the Detroit Red Wings' forward just after free agency started on July 1, 2026 at 12:01 p.m., Eastern time.
Three weeks later, Kane signed a two-year, $16 million contract to return to Chicago where he won three Stanley Cups with the Blackhawks in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
"If you were to ask me last year, at the end of the season, I thought I would be going back to Detroit," Kane said in the interview. "Danny (Wirtz) called me at 11:03 (Central time) or something, as soon as free agency opened and it was actually kind of an emotional call from him, a call I'll never forget.
"All of a sudden you start thinking about, okay, well, there's interest. Maybe it'd be a cool place to come back and play."
#Chicago #three
According to Kane in an interview on Monday's "Pardon My Take" in Chicago, Blackhawks owner Danny Wirtz made an "emotional call" to the Detroit Red Wings' forward just after free agency started on July 1, 2026 at 12:01 p.m., Eastern time.
Three weeks later, Kane signed a two-year, $16 million contract to return to Chicago where he won three Stanley Cups with the Blackhawks in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
"If you were to ask me last year, at the end of the season, I thought I would be going back to Detroit," Kane said in the interview. "Danny (Wirtz) called me at 11:03 (Central time) or something, as soon as free agency opened and it was actually kind of an emotional call from him, a call I'll never forget.
"All of a sudden you start thinking about, okay, well, there's interest. Maybe it'd be a cool place to come back and play."
#Chicago #three
3 months ago
Minnesota's flagship paper came under fire over the weekend after a columnist defended Democrat Gov. Tim Walz's reasoning for pardoning a foreign born man just before the convicted child rapist was set to be deported.
"The Minnesota Star Tribune is cheering on Tim Walz protecting an illegal alien monster who raped a 10 year old girl. No one should read this depraved rag. They are sick," said House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., on X.
Minnesota's Board of Pardons is composed of Walz, state Attorney General Keith Ellison and state Chief Justice Natalie Hudson. They voted on June 10 to grant clemency to Tou Lue Vang, a Laotian national who between 2002 and 2004 repeatedly raped a child. Lue was set to be deported from the United States before the clemency was issued.
Walz, Minnesota Board Of Pardons Clears Convicted Illegal Alien Child ****** Offender Facing Deportation
In a section of the column called "Cheers to Gov. Tim Walz," writer Rochelle Olson praised the governor and failed vice presidential candidate for his decision to defend the pardon.
"The Minnesota Star Tribune is cheering on Tim Walz protecting an illegal alien monster who raped a 10 year old girl. No one should read this depraved rag. They are sick," said House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., on X.
Minnesota's Board of Pardons is composed of Walz, state Attorney General Keith Ellison and state Chief Justice Natalie Hudson. They voted on June 10 to grant clemency to Tou Lue Vang, a Laotian national who between 2002 and 2004 repeatedly raped a child. Lue was set to be deported from the United States before the clemency was issued.
Walz, Minnesota Board Of Pardons Clears Convicted Illegal Alien Child ****** Offender Facing Deportation
In a section of the column called "Cheers to Gov. Tim Walz," writer Rochelle Olson praised the governor and failed vice presidential candidate for his decision to defend the pardon.