Trump sneaks in one more official pardon
Former President Donald Trump has made one last pardon in his final hours of presidency.
Fox News host Jeanine Pirro has successfully lobbied the US politician and TV star to pardon her ex-husband after learning he was not on Trump’s final pardon list, which was released on Wednesday.
Albert J Pirro Jr was convicted on conspiracy and tax evasion charges after improperly deducting $1.5 million (US$1.2 million) of his personal expenses in business write-offs.
Reports via CNN claim Mr Pirro was not on the pardon list, before his ex-wife lobbied for Mr Trump’s help.
Aides were told midmorning in the middle of changing over duties to the new administration, that Mr Pirro’s pardon needed to be done.
CNN reported the order came as a surprise as they rushed to fulfill the pardon before Trump’s reign ended at midday.
Mr Pirro joins a number of individuals who received last-minute pardons and commutations yesterday from Mr Trump.
This includes his onetime political strategist Steve Bannon, former top fundraiser Elliott Broidy and well-known rappers Lil Wayne and Kodak Black.
Donald Trump with rapper Lil Wayne.
Jeanine Pirro is one of Fox News’ highest-rated weekend hosts, and has gotten cozy with Mr Trump for being one of his most vehement defenders.
She attended his annual New Year's Eve party in December 2020.
Mr Trump, and Pirro clearly have developed an alliance as he called for Fox News to bring the host “back” after she was reportedly suspended by the network following commentary that doubted the patriotism of Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar.
"Bring back @JudgeJeanine Pirro," Trump tweeted.
"The Radical Left Democrats, working closely with their beloved partner, the Fake News Media, is using every trick in the book to SILENCE a majority of our Country. They have all out campaigns against @FoxNews hosts who are doing too well."
Ms Pirro targeted Ms Omar, who is one of the few Muslim members of Congress.
She pointed out the political figure’s religious head covering.
"Think about it: Omar wears a hijab," Ms Pirro said.
“Is her adherence to this Islamic doctrine indicative of her adherence to Sharia law, which in itself is antithetical to the United States Constitution?"
Her remarks prompted Fox to release a statement, "We strongly condemn Jeanine Pirro's comments" and went on to say that the views she expressed "do not reflect those of the network and we have addressed the matter with her directly."