Diddy’s Legal Team Confirms Contact with Trump Administration Over Potential Pardon
Sean "Diddy" Combs is still entangled in very serious legal challenges, and his lawyers are hoping to find a way to clemency from the Trump administration. After being denied bail for the third time, the hip-hop icon is still being held while waiting for sentencing on October 3, where he could face up to twenty years in jail for two federal counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. His legal team, however, communicated that they contacted the White House regarding a possible pardon, although it is still unclear what was communicated. On the other hand, his attorney, Nicole Westmoreland, alluded to having conversations and avoided being specific about who in the administration might be reviewing the case. Beyond that, his lawyer stated that Combs is holding on to hope despite the massive collapse of his music and business empire that started losing steam when he was arrested in September 2024.
Trump’s Controversial Pardons Create Uncertain Prospects for Combs
The discussion around Combs’ possible pardon arises at a time when President Donald Trump has already issued several highly controversial acts of clemency. For instance, he granted pardons to reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, numerous January 6 rioters, his former adviser Steve Bannon, and ex-Governor Rod Blagojevich. Moreover, Trump’s history of granting pardons to hip-hop figures such as NBA YoungBoy, Michael “Harry-O” Harris, Lil Wayne, and Kodak Black suggest that Combs’ legal team sees a possible opening. And still, Combs’ situation remains complex because the court convicted him on two prostitution-related felonies while acquitting him of more severe charges like sex trafficking and racketeering. On the contrary, prosecutors continue to portray him as operating a wider criminal enterprise, alleging serious misconduct that included forced labor and drug offenses. Regardless of the acquittals, the case has left Combs fighting to preserve what little remains of his career and reputation.
Trump’s Personal Ties with Diddy Complicate the Pardon Conversation
Trump himself addressed the issue in a recent Newsmax interview, acknowledging his past friendship with Combs while expressing hesitation about offering a pardon. He admitted they once enjoyed a cordial relationship, yet he emphasized that Combs’ public criticism during his presidency created tension that now influences his thinking. Nonetheless, Trump suggested the rapper was “half-innocent,” leaving room for interpretation but not certainty. In comparison, his comments indicated that personal loyalty still plays a role in his decision-making process. Combs distanced himself from Trump in 2017 when he dismissed him directly in an interview for the Daily Beast. Additionally, Combs stated in 2020 that "men like Trump must be rid from the planet,". This showed a sharp decline in their relationship. Despite any political differences and personal history, Combs' legal team is filing every available motion, holding on to any chance of a pardon, which could change the trajectory of Combs’ future.
