Donald Trump’s recent pardon scandal is a history lesson in public power and oppression.
According to the Daily Beast, Donald Trump is continuing his antics by planning to pardon multiple U.S military men accused of murder. Specifically, they have been accused of shooting civilians and killing detainees. Among these men is Special Operations Chief Edward Gallagher.
Updates on the story have already revealed major detriments to the criminal justice system. Trump has already prepared their paperwork to be completed before Memorial Day. And the man in charge of the conspicuous behavior is Fox co-host Pete Hegseth – an advisor and friend to the President.
Allegedly, Hegseth has influenced Donald Trump to support and pardon the convicted servicemen in private conversation. He has even defended them on air by calling them “good guys” who made “tough calls.” But, Hegseth is looking out for his personal interest. He states that the pardon is,
“heartening for guys like me and others in the service that wants a President defending the warfighter.”
Consequently, based on the news, the lobbying was successful. If you recall, Trump went to bat for Gallagher on Twitter this past March. And from the looks of it, they are looking to turn Gallagher into a conservative hero.
In honor of his past service to our Country, Navy Seal #EddieGallagher will soon be moved to less restrictive confinement while he awaits his day in court. Process should move quickly! @foxandfriends @RepRalphNorman
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 30, 2019
However, in the grand context, we are arguing the unfair branding of criminals in combat zones. One soldier stated that “he is giving the regiment a bad name…People like him make people mistrust us.” And in this context, his statement is correct. Both men were fully aware of the consequences and should be treated as such. But, this argument is not enough to stop Donald Trump from reacting in their favor.
What Now?
Late last year, Trump let the American people know that is intentions were to free military convicts. He tweeted, At the request of many, I will be reviewing the case of a ‘U.S. Military hero, Major Matt Golsteyn, who is charged with murder. He could face the death penalty from our own government after he admitted to killing a Terrorist bomb maker overseas…”
So, what do you all believe? Can Trump actually be stopped this point? Or should we set our eyes on the 2020 election instead?
Illustration: Kamaal Holly
