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Rep. Olszewski Proposes Amendment to Overhaul Presidential Pardons

12/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Rep. Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.) proposes a constitutional amendment to enhance accountability in the presidential pardon system by letting Congress review and overturn pardons with a two-thirds supermajority vote.
He argues that recent pardons by U.S. President Donald Trump, including those for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, illustrate the need for reform.
The amendment aims to prevent abuses of clemency and restore public trust in government.

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Story summary

Rep. Johnny Olszewski (D-Md.) proposes a constitutional amendment to enhance accountability in the presidential pardon system by letting Congress review and overturn pardons with a two-thirds supermajority vote.
He argues that recent pardons by U.S. President Donald Trump, including those for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, illustrate the need for reform.
The amendment aims to prevent abuses of clemency and restore public trust in government.