Trump Ponders Pardons for Polluters, Diddy Clemency Still on Table

President Trump is reportedly preparing to issue pardons for individuals convicted of emissions and clean air violations, with advisers expected to present a recommendations list focused exclusively on Clean Air Act offenders during a Friday afternoon meeting. Meanwhile, discussions continue regarding high-profile clemency requests, including one from Sean “Diddy” Combs.

Sources familiar with the president’s plans tell CBS News that the push for these environmental pardons has intensified in recent weeks, with various advocates lobbying on behalf of those facing legal challenges. The expected recommendations follow the administration’s earlier easing of some environmental criminal enforcement and Trump’s previous pardon of a Wyoming mechanic convicted of emissions-related offenses. White House officials emphasize that “President Trump is the ultimate decider on any clemency-related actions. “

Combs, currently serving a sentence of just over four years at the federal prison in Fort Dix, New Jersey, is among those awaiting a decision. The music mogul was convicted last year on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, though he was acquitted on more serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges . His legal team is actively appealing both the conviction and sentence.

As of Friday morning, Trump has not committed to a specific number of clemency grants, but he has been privately deliberating on requests, including Combs’ pardon request. The president previously told the New York Times in January that Combs had sent a letter asking for a pardon but said he was not considering the request at that time. The ongoing discussions suggest the matter remains open.

The intersection of environmental policy and celebrity justice has put the president’s clemency power in the spotlight. With the Justice Department already scaling back criminal enforcement of the Clean Air Act, these potential pardons could signal a broader shift in how emissions violations are treated. For Combs and others awaiting decisions, the president’s ultimate call remains the only thing that matters.