Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Comer Rejects Panel Backing Maxwell Pardon as Trump Mulls Deal

4/23/2026

40 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

House Oversight Chairman James Comer rejected reports that his panel backs a Ghislaine Maxwell pardon and told a deposition he is not open to pardoning her.
President Donald Trump said he might discuss a Maxwell pardon with the Justice Department, making a deal less likely given the committee split.
Maxwell invoked the Fifth Amendment.
Democratic Rep. Robert Garcia and Governor Gavin Newsom condemned any pardon as a step back.

History

Historical Context

Ghislaine Maxwell was convicted in December 2021 for sex trafficking, echoing the 1994 Violence Against Women Act aimed at protecting victims. The U.S. Congress allocated $1.6 billion to combat violence against women, highlighting ongoing accountability struggles. Discussions of a potential pardon by Donald Trump have raised concerns among lawmakers like Rep. Robert Garcia, reflecting fears of regression in justice for survivors.

1 of 2

Story summary

House Oversight Chairman James Comer rejected reports that his panel backs a Ghislaine Maxwell pardon and told a deposition he is not open to pardoning her.
President Donald Trump said he might discuss a Maxwell pardon with the Justice Department, making a deal less likely given the committee split.
Maxwell invoked the Fifth Amendment.
Democratic Rep. Robert Garcia and Governor Gavin Newsom condemned any pardon as a step back.

1 / 2