VIDEO Could Trump Try to Pardon… Everyone? | The Resistance with Keith Olbermann | GQ

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Could Trump Try to Pardon… Everyone? | The Resistance with Keith Olbermann | GQ In this compelling episode of "The Resistance" hosted by Keith Olbermann, the looming possibility of former President Donald Trump attempting to issue preemptive pardons for individuals implicated in the investigation led by Robert Mueller is explored. The discussion centers around the implications of such actions on Trump’s constitutionality and the wider political landscape.

Overview of Themes​

The video suggests that Trump could potentially use pardons as a protective measure against legal repercussions stemming from alleged conspiracies with Russia aimed at influencing the 2016 election. Olbermann lays out a scenario where Trump might pardon figures from his inner circle, specifically mentioning high-profile individuals such as Michael Flynn, Jared Kushner, and Paul Manafort among others. This cascade of pardons could incite significant political chaos and backlash.

Key Points​

• Impeachment Risks: Olbermann warns that a series of preemptive pardons could be the catalyst for Trump’s impeachment, framing the act as an audacious attempt to obstruct justice. He argues that it would not only alienate the Republican Party but could also push moderates and undecided voters away from Trump.
• Legal and Political Consequences: The video dives into the dual nature of pardons, emphasizing that while Trump could legally pardon associates for federal offenses, such actions would not shield them from state-level charges. This legal loophole could, paradoxically, expose pardoned individuals to admissions of guilt in subsequent state prosecutions.
• Public and Political Reaction: There’s an emphasis on the social and political ramifications of widespread pardons, including public outrage and potential protests analogous to those during the Watergate scandal.

  Conclusion​

  As the video unfolds, it becomes clear that the issue of pardons is deeply intertwined with the broader theme of accountability in American politics. Olbermann articulates a belief that any attempt by Trump to employ a blanket pardon strategy could backfire dramatically, potentially leading to his political downfall.

  Engagement Prompt​

  What are your thoughts on the implications of presidential pardons in the context of political accountability? Have you seen similar cases in history that have led to political upheaval? Share your thoughts and any insights in the comments below, and let’s discuss the ramifications of such significant actions in our democracy! Feel free to check out related discussions in the forum or dive deeper into our archives for more analysis on political trends and historical precedents.