Full Breakdown
Mitt Romney's Call for a Trump Pardon and Reflections on Political Violence
9/30/2025, 10:24:04 PM
Romney's Advocacy for a Pardon
Former Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney disclosed that he urged President Joe Biden to preemptively pardon Donald Trump amid investigations into Trump's handling of classified documents and efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. During a conversation with CNN's Dana Bash at Drew University, Romney expressed his concerns about the potential for political prosecutions, stating, “I don’t want the anger and the hate and the vitriol. But number two: We just can’t begin to be prosecuting political opponents.” He noted that a pardon would have clarified this stance, but the Biden administration did not act on his suggestion.
The Context of Political Prosecutions
Romney's comments come as Trump has intensified his campaign against perceived political adversaries, including the recent indictment of former FBI Director James Comey. Romney criticized the use of the justice system to target political opponents, describing it as a "very dangerous path." He reflected on Trump's motivations, suggesting that humiliation from past legal challenges may be driving Trump's current actions against his opponents.
Concerns Over Political Violence
In addition to discussing Trump, Romney addressed the recent tragic events involving violence against religious institutions, including a shooting at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan, where he has familial ties. He condemned the attack as “unimaginable, unthinkable, and inexcusable,” highlighting the broader issue of rising political violence in the U.S. Romney expressed concern over the impact of social media in exacerbating these tensions, stating that it fuels dark impulses and anger among individuals.
Criticism of Trump's Policies
Romney also critiqued Trump's approach to tariffs and foreign relations, particularly regarding Russia. He expressed disbelief at Trump's treatment of Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the need for the U.S. to support Ukraine against Russian aggression. Romney's remarks reflect a broader concern about the implications of Trump's policies on international relations and domestic stability.
Official Statements & Responses
Romney's advocacy for a pardon and his reflections on political violence underscore a significant tension within the Republican Party regarding Trump's influence. He has previously been critical of Trump, being the only Republican to vote to convict him during both impeachment trials. Romney's comments resonate with ongoing debates about the role of political accountability and the health of American democracy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I called a member of the White House, one of the senior advisers to President Biden. And I said, ‘If the Justice Department decides to indict President Trump, I hope President Biden will immediately eliminate that, and that he will provide a pardon immediately,’” — Mitt Romney
- “The idea that the system of justice is used to punish political opponents is a very dangerous path to go down.” — Mitt Romney
- “ During the event, Romney spoke about his cousin and her connection to the area, and said, “an attack on a religious institution where people are worshiping is unimaginable, unthinkable and inexcusable.” — Mitt Romney
- “If you’ve been humiliated, the response is the most significant,” Romney said.” — Mitt Romney
What's Next
As political tensions continue to rise, Romney's insights may influence discussions within the Republican Party regarding the future of Trump's influence and the party's direction leading into the 2028 presidential election.
