In a moment that instantly stirred controversy, former President Donald Trump has reminded the public that he holds the legal authority to pardon Ghislaine Maxwell, the former associate of Jeffrey Epstein who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for sex trafficking minors.
Standing before reporters ahead of his international visit, Trump was asked about recent discussions involving Maxwell’s legal status. His response was brief, but enough to reignite the national conversation.
“I’m allowed to do it,” Trump said, referring to the presidential pardon. “But it’s not something I’ve thought about.”
Though Trump made it clear he hasn’t actively considered granting clemency, the comment alone was enough to raise eyebrows and speculation, especially considering Maxwell’s role in one of the most high-profile criminal cases involving sexual abuse and elite networks.
A Familiar Figure, A Familiar Strategy
This isn’t the first time Trump has weighed in on Maxwell publicly. Years ago, he made headlines for saying he “wished her well” during the early stages of her legal battle. At the time, critics accused him of showing undue sympathy toward someone tied to serious federal crimes.
Now, years later, Trump has once again brought her name back into the spotlight — this time not with sympathy, but with a reminder of presidential power. Whether intentional or not, it’s a move that appears to serve his well-known strategy: dominate the conversation by saying just enough to cause a stir, but not enough to commit to any action.
The Timing Raises Questions
Trump’s comment comes at a time when speculation around Maxwell’s future is growing. While no formal legal proceedings or pardons are in motion, political observers have noted the curious timing, especially with recent reports of high-level meetings involving officials and Maxwell behind closed doors.
Some believe the former president is simply reasserting his authority in response to growing questions. Others view it as a calculated move to test public reaction without making any definitive promises.
Survivors and Advocates Respond
As expected, the response from advocacy groups and survivor networks was swift. Trump’s comments are viewed by many as insensitive to the suffering endured by Epstein’s victims, with concerns that even suggesting a pardon could convey a troubling message
“To even suggest it feels like reopening old wounds,” said one survivor advocate. “It gives the impression that accountability might not apply to the powerful.”
Legal Power vs. Moral Responsibility
Legally speaking, Trump is correct, presidents do have broad power to grant pardons for federal crimes. However, the power is controversial, especially when applied to politically sensitive or morally complex cases.
Pardoning someone convicted of exploiting minors would represent a deeply polarizing decision, even among Trump’s own supporters. While some might view it as an expression of legal autonomy, others would see it as a dangerous misuse of authority.
The Bottom Line
For now, Trump says he hasn’t considered pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell. But by reminding the public of his power to do so, he’s ensured that her name, and the dark history it’s tied to, remains part of the national conversation.
Whether this was a calculated political move or a passing remark, it’s clear that even years after her conviction, the Maxwell case continues to cast a long shadow, one that still touches the highest levels of power.