High-profile convicts lobby for rumored Trump pardons ahead of 250th anniversary

Published June 2, 2026 7:00am ET



A rumored White House proposal to issue 250 pardons to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday is prompting a new wave of public clemency campaigns from some of the country’s most recognizable convicted figures, despite uncertainty about whether such a plan is even in the works.

The proposal, first reported by the Wall Street Journal last month, remains in preliminary discussions, sources familiar with the matter told the outlet. In turn, the murmurs of a potential clemency package have generated fresh intrigue among pardon hopefuls seeking relief from President Donald Trump, whose grants are increasingly sought through online promotions, lobbying campaigns, and people with sway over the administration.

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