Trump’s Pardon Spree Continues Amid Legal and Trade Controversies
On May 28, 2025, President Donald Trump continued his wave of pardons, granting clemency to reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, rapper NBA YoungBoy, and former New York Congressman Michael Grimm. The pardons, which followed a flurry of high-profile clemencies, have raised concerns about political favoritism and lobbying efforts surrounding Trump’s decisions.
Chrisleys Released from Prison
Todd and Julie Chrisley, known for their reality show Chrisley Knows Best, were released from federal prison after serving two years of their combined 19-year sentence for bank fraud and tax evasion. Trump’s “pardon czar”, Alice Marie Johnson, played a key role in securing their release, with their daughter Savannah Chrisley lobbying for months.
Federal Court Strikes Down Trump’s Tariffs
In a major legal setback, a federal trade court struck down Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, ruling that he had exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The court’s decision blocks Trump’s steep import duties on Canada, Mexico, and China, which were imposed to combat trade imbalances. The ruling is expected to impact ongoing trade negotiations, with the Trump administration immediately appealing the decision.
Judge Blocks Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
A U.S. federal judge blocked Trump’s attempt to suspend Biden-era migrant parole programs, ruling that the administration must resume processing applications for migrants seeking work permits and legal status. The decision provides relief to thousands of migrants from Afghanistan, Latin America, and Ukraine, who were granted temporary residence under Biden’s policies.
May 28, 2025, underscored the complexities of Trump’s leadership, blending legal battles, trade disputes, and high-profile pardons. It highlighted the administration’s ongoing efforts to navigate domestic and global challenges.