US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering granting clemency to a number of high-profile individuals, including music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs and Fugees rapper Prakazrel “Pras” Michel, as part of a potential wave of pardons to mark Independence Day.
According to CBS News, Trump was due to meet advisers on Friday, 3 July, to discuss possible pardons before making a final decision. Two sources familiar with the matter told the broadcaster that the administration had been exploring a plan to issue as many as 250 pardons in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
Combs, who is serving a prison sentence over prostitution-related offences, is said to be among those whose requests are under consideration. Michel, meanwhile, is imprisoned following his conviction on foreign lobbying-related charges.
Despite the speculation, the White House has previously denied reports suggesting Trump was preparing to pardon Combs. In January, the president also said he was not considering a clemency request reportedly submitted by the music executive.
A White House official told CBS News that any decision on pardons ultimately rests with the president.
“President Trump is the ultimate decider on any clemency related actions,” the official said.
Trump has previously granted pardons to a wide range of individuals, including political allies and prominent public figures, a practice that has fuelled lobbying efforts from those seeking clemency.
As of Friday morning, the president had not confirmed how many people, if any, would receive pardons. However, one source told CBS News that Trump had continued private discussions over several requests, including Combs’ case.
The New York Times reported in January that Combs had written to Trump seeking a presidential pardon, although the president said at the time that he was not considering the request.
