Former President Donald Trump is keeping a close eye on the federal criminal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs — and he didn’t rule out the possibility of issuing a pardon if the jury returns a guilty verdict.
Speaking to Fox News on Friday, Trump admitted he hasn’t been following the case closely but said he would need to “look at what’s happening” and review the facts before making any decisions. “If Diddy was convicted and if I felt he was mistreated, I might consider a pardon,” Trump said, emphasizing the many “ifs” surrounding the ongoing trial.
Diddy is currently facing serious charges in Manhattan, including two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, and one count of racketeering conspiracy. The trial is still underway, and the verdict is yet to come.
A Past Friendship on Pause
Trump and Diddy share a long history dating back to their days in New York’s entertainment scene. On the 2012 season of “Celebrity Apprentice,” Trump once praised Diddy, calling him a “good friend” and a “good guy.” However, Trump acknowledged that their relationship cooled after he entered politics, stating, “When I got into politics, our relationship busted up,” though he insisted that this wouldn’t affect any potential pardon decision.
Looking Ahead
While Trump recently granted pardons to several high-profile celebrities, his comments on Diddy’s case appear cautious and measured for now. The legal battle continues, and all eyes remain on the courtroom as the trial progresses.