Christie Condemns Trump's Pardons as 'Free Rein' for White-Collar Criminals

Former New Jersey Governor criticizes President Trump's recent clemency decisions, alleging they undermine the integrity of the justice system

Hey Small Biters,

In a pointed critique, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has accused President Donald Trump of eroding the rule of law through a series of controversial pardons. Speaking on ABC's "This Week," Christie asserted that Trump's actions effectively grant "free rein" to white-collar criminals, signaling a dangerous precedent for the nation's legal standards.

Christie, a former U.S. Attorney, highlighted the recent pardon of Paul Walczak, a nursing home executive convicted of embezzling $10 million in payroll taxes. He emphasized that Walczak's mother was a significant donor to Trump's campaign, suggesting a direct link between political contributions and clemency.

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"He's saying it doesn't exist, anything goes," Christie remarked, referring to the administration's apparent dismissal of white-collar crime severity. He categorized Trump's pardons into three groups: "pay-to-play" pardons, reality TV personalities turned supporters, and individuals portrayed as victims of a politicized Justice Department.