Trump Says Diddy Pardon Unlikely Amid Hostility, Conviction

President Donald Trump is currently undecided about whether to pardon Sean "Diddy" Combs, who was recently convicted on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but acquitted on more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Trump acknowledged their past friendship but noted that Combs' hostility toward him during his presidency, including harsh public criticisms during the 2016 and 2020 election cycles, complicates the decision. Trump described Combs as "half innocent" and reflected on the political and personal challenges involved in granting clemency, especially given the potential backlash from key voter demographics warned by Republican strategists. While some speculate Trump might consider a pardon if he believed Combs was mistreated, his recent statements suggest a "likely no" given the personal and political factors at play. The decision highlights Trump's history of controversial pardons and the intersection of celebrity, politics, and legal issues in his administration's clemency decisions. Combs faces up to 20 years in prison if sentenced on his convictions, keeping public and political attention on the possibility of a presidential pardon.