Trump Flirts with Pardons for Extremists Behind Whitmer Kidnapping Plot

 

Donald Trump Signals Possible Pardons for Men Convicted in Plot to Kidnap Governor Whitmer

In a chilling development, Donald Trump has suggested he may consider pardoning the extremists convicted of plotting to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer — a Democrat — during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m going to look at it. I will take a look at it. It’s been brought to my attention,” Trump told reporters when asked about potential pardons for the men convicted in the violent scheme.

“I did watch the trial. It looked to me like somewhat of a railroad job, I’ll be honest with you,” he added. “It looked to me like some people said some stupid things—you know, they were drinking—and I think they said stupid things. But I’ll take a look at that. A lot of people are asking me that question, from both sides actually. A lot of people think they got railroaded, and probably some people don’t.”

The men in question, Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr., were found guilty of conspiring to kidnap Governor Whitmer from her vacation home, furious over her public health orders during the pandemic. Fox received a 16-year sentence for kidnapping conspiracy and plotting to use a weapon of mass destruction—stemming from plans to blow up a bridge to hinder law enforcement. Croft, described by prosecutors as the “idea guy,” was sentenced to 19 years for his role in the kidnapping plot and for possessing an unregistered explosive.

Trump’s comments echo his pattern of embracing political violence—just as he did when he pardoned those involved in the January 6th insurrection. It’s a dangerous signal to his MAGA base: violence and extremism are excusable, as long as the targets are Democrats.