Trump Hints He Could Pardon Roger Stone, Who’s Due in Prison on Tuesday

President Donald Trump has hinted that he may pardon Roger Stone. Stone was a key Trump ally who is expected to present himself at prison on Tuesday. He lied to Congress and attempted to cover up his attempt to contact WikiLeaks during the 2016 election, among other offenses.

CNN reports that nine people close to Trump have suggested he will pardon Stone, who has remained one of his most loyal supporters, and when Fox News’ Sean Hannity asked Trump about Stone in an interview, the President said: “I am always thinking.”

“You’ll be watching like everyone else in this case,” he added.

In another interview, Trump defended Stone, another possible indication that he’s considering a pardon.

“He was framed. He was treated horrible. He was treated so badly,” Trump said.

When Trump was told Stone was praying for a pardon, he again strongly hinted at one: “If you say he’s praying, his prayer may be answered.”

“Let’s see what happens.”

White House chief of staff Mark Meadows wouldn’t say if Trump was planning a pardon but he also didn’t rule it out. Speaking to reporters, Meadows made clear that Trump had the power to do so, while the President’s own remarks seem to form a pattern.

“Obviously, a pardon and commutations is something that the attorney general can weigh in on, but that’s a power that is reserved solely for the President of the United States,” Meadows said.