Will President Trump Pardon Lori Laughlin and Her Husband?
Given the recent developments in the case of Lori Laughlin, an actress and former TV host, and her husband, this raises an interesting question: Will President Trump grant a pardon to Lori Laughlin and her husband? The sudden dropping of the investigation by William Barr’s Justice Department suggests that they may slip through the cracks and avoid further legal consequences.
Reasons for a Pardon
The question remains, why would President Trump consider issuing a pardon? The answer may lie in potential strategic gains or political advantages. White-collar offenders like Lori Laughlin and her husband typically face minimal jail time, usually around 2 months, with the possibility of serving only 2 weeks with good behavior. During their imprisonment, they might be held in a more secure but less harsh white-collar institution. The living conditions often include social activities, such as potlucks, conjugal visits, and even recreational activities like golf and celebratory parties for some new releases. These conditions are vastly different from the typical prison environment, with less risk of violence or isolation.
Political and Personal Interests
President Trump, known for his business acumen and complex personal relationships, might weigh the costs and benefits of pardoning the couple. A federal pardon involves offering the recipients a degree of protection from federal prosecution or punishment. Trump doesn’t solely rely on legal justifications; pragmatic politics often play a significant role in his decision-making process. If Lori Laughlin and her husband can offer something of value in return, such as political endorsements, campaign support, or media appearances, then a pardon might be more likely.
Implications and Support
It’s worth noting that not all Pardons come with guarantees of reciprocation. The White House may be compelled to consider their dwindling support as a factor in deciding whether to pardon the couple. As Trump's popularity has steadily declined, the risk of alienating a significant portion of the electorate increases. Issuing a pardon for controversial individuals, especially those who have been widely publicized and criticized, can further damage his image and weaken his support base. Therefore, Trump might be wary of the potential backlash from voters who view the pardon as a form of political favoritism.
Conclusion
While the odds of President Trump pardoning Lori Laughlin and her husband are uncertain, the motivations could range from strategic political gains to practical considerations of personal relationships. Given the increasing skepticism and lowered support for his administration, Trump might also be cautious about the potential political fallout. Only time will tell if the President decides to grant a pardon and how it might impact the broader discourse surrounding white-collar crimes and presidential pardons.