Bulwark Takes Is Trump Considering PARDONS for Sex Offenders?
Oct 7, 2025
The hosts dive into Trump's unusual response when questioned about Ghislaine Maxwell, showcasing moments of feigned ignorance and unexpected name-dropping like Puff Daddy. They explore whether his avoidance of commitment towards pardons signals cognitive decline or a tactical move. Discussions reflect on contrasting Trump's tone towards sexual offenders versus migrants and how past comments about Maxwell reveal inconsistencies. Ultimately, they ponder the political fallout of the Epstein saga and Trump's self-incriminating press behavior.
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Evasive Oval Office Response
- Donald Trump dodges a clear no when asked about pardoning Ghislaine Maxwell and instead feigns not remembering her name.
- That evasiveness keeps the possibility of a pardon open while avoiding explicit commitment.
Pattern In Pardon Signaling
- Sam Stein and Tim Miller interpret Trump's behavior as deliberate coyness rather than cognitive decline.
- Trump links Maxwell in his mind to other pardon requests, signaling a pattern of entertaining clemency for sexual offenders.
Earlier 'I Wish Her Well' Clip
- Tim and Sam replay an older clip where Trump said he 'wished her well' about Maxwell, showing inconsistent messaging.
- The hosts use that prior example to illustrate Trump's shifting public posture toward Maxwell.