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Trump's Pardon Consideration Sparks Controversy with Governor Whitmer

Governor Whitmer expresses disappointment over Trump's potential pardons for men convicted in her kidnapping plot, contradicting his previous assurances to her.

Overview

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has expressed dismay over President Trump's consideration of pardons for Barry Croft Jr. and Adam Fox, convicted in a 2020 kidnapping plot against her. Whitmer stated that Trump had previously assured her he would not pursue pardons, which she opposed. Trump, however, has suggested the case was mishandled, calling it a 'railroad job.' The Justice Department's new pardon attorney is also reviewing the case. Whitmer's relationship with Trump has drawn criticism from some Democrats, despite her efforts to collaborate with his administration on various issues.

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Analysis

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  • The articles present a neutral tone regarding the conflict between Governor Whitmer and President Trump.
  • Tension arises over potential pardons for men involved in a kidnapping plot against Whitmer.
  • Whitmer's disappointment is noted, but the articles maintain a factual focus on political dynamics.

Articles (7)

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Center (5)

"…The Justice Department charged 14 people from an anti-government group called the Wolverine Watchmen in a plot to kidnap Whitmer for her role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, and nine were convicted or pleaded guilty."

'A railroad job': Trump says he'll look at pardoning convicts in Whitmer kidnapping plot
USA TODAYUSA TODAY·1M·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

"…Mr. Trump clashed with Whitmer in 2020, tweeting "LIBERATE MICHIGAN" amid protests in the state for Whitmer's policies to restrict the spread of COVID-19."

Trump says he's considering pardoning defendants in Gretchen Whitmer kidnapping plot
CBS NewsCBS News·1M·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

FAQ

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Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr. were convicted as co-leaders of the plot and sentenced to 16 years and more than 19 years in prison, respectively.

The plot was partially in response to Governor Whitmer's COVID-19 restrictions.

Governor Whitmer linked Trump's rhetoric to the kidnapping plot, suggesting his words were a rallying cry for hate groups.

The Justice Department's new pardon attorney, Ed Martin, indicated he would examine the case closely, comparing it to the January 6 Capitol riot.

History

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    4 articles