May 31, 2025: In a surprising twist at a White House press conference on Friday, former President Donald Trump said he would be open to reviewing a potential pardon for hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is currently on trial in Manhattan on serious federal charges.
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Asked by Fox News’ Peter Doocy whether he’d consider a pardon for Combs, Trump replied:
“Nobody’s asked… [but] I know people are thinking about it.”
He added that he hasn’t been closely following the trial but left the door open:
“It’s not a popularity contest… I would certainly look at the facts. If I think somebody was mistreated, whether they like me or don’t like me, it wouldn’t have any impact on me.”
Trump and Diddy: A Complicated History
Trump and Combs share a past from their days as entertainment powerhouses. In 2012, Trump publicly referred to Combs as a “good friend” during his time hosting The Apprentice on NBC. However, the former president admitted Friday that the two have not spoken in years.
“He used to really like me a lot,” Trump said. “But I think when I ran for politics, that relationship busted up.”
Diddy Faces Life in Prison If Convicted
Combs is facing a high-profile trial in Manhattan federal court, where he has pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. Prosecutors allege Combs led a criminal enterprise that operated under the guise of his music and fashion empire.
He reportedly rejected a plea deal and is currently fighting the charges in court.
Trump’s Celebrity Pardons Continue
Trump’s remarks follow a string of recent pardons granted to public figures, including reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley and rapper NBA YoungBoy. His willingness to entertain a pardon for Combs is in line with his pattern of issuing clemency for celebrities and entertainers.