President Donald Trump has commented publicly for the first time on the potential pardon of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, weeks after Combs was acquitted of the most serious charges in a high-profile federal sex-crimes trial.
In an interview aired on August 1 with Newsmax host Rob Finnerty, Trump was asked directly whether he would consider pardoning Combs. Although he did not provide a definitive answer, Trump noted that Combs’ past criticism of him could complicate such a decision.
“He was essentially, I guess, sort of, half-innocent,” Trump said, referring to the trial outcome. “I don’t know what they do, he’s still in jail or something. He was celebrating a victory, but I guess it wasn’t as good of a victory.”
Background on Combs’ Trial
On July 2, Combs was found not guilty on major charges including racketeering and sex trafficking involving former partners Casandra “Cassie” Ventura Fine and another woman identified as “Jane.” Prosecutors alleged Combs had forced the women into attending prolonged, drug-fueled sex parties, dubbed “freak-offs.”
However, the jury convicted Combs on two lesser counts related to transporting individuals to engage in prostitution. The verdict has since sparked continued legal motions, with Combs’ legal team filing for either acquittal or a new trial on July 31.
Trump Reflects on Personal Ties and Political Tensions
During the interview, Trump reflected on a past cordial relationship with Combs, but noted that the music executive had become “very hostile” during Trump’s time in office. He referenced Combs’ 2017 comments in The Daily Beast, where the mogul criticized Trump and the U.S. political system, stating:
“Black people don’t really care about Trump… The tomfoolery that’s going on in D.C., that’s just regular everyday business to Black folks.”
Trump acknowledged the difficulty of putting personal feelings aside:
“We’re human beings, and we don’t like to have things cloud our judgment, right?… When you knew someone and you were fine, and then you run for office and he made some terrible statements — it makes it more difficult to do.”
When asked whether it was “more likely a no” on the prospect of pardoning Combs, Trump responded, “I’d say so.”
Political Pressure and Public Reaction
Trump’s remarks come amid growing speculation about potential high-profile pardons if he returns to office. Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly weighed in via X (formerly Twitter) on July 30, warning against a Diddy pardon. She wrote:
“Trump should not pardon Diddy. He doesn’t deserve it. He’s a Trump hater. He’s a woman abuser. MAGA is already upset over elites seeming to cover for each other. This would not help… most young female voters will HATE a Diddy pardon.”
Although no formal pardon request has been filed, Trump previously stated on May 30 that he believed “people are thinking about it,” despite not having heard from Combs in years.