‘Diddy used to like me a lot': Donald Trump says their relationship ‘busted up,' doesn't rule out pardon for disgraced mogul
Weeks after reports claimed that Sean 'Diddy' Combs' team is quietly exploring a potential pardon under the Trump administration, the POTUS himself addressed the buzz during a White House press briefing. Diddy is currently on trial in Manhattan on serious charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and assault, and with Trump recently handing out clemency to several high-profile celebs, speculations are rife about whether Diddy could be next in line. The President said no one's formally approached him about a Diddy pardon yet, but he's keeping a close eye on the case. He even brought up their past, mentioning they 'used to be on good terms.'
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Donald Trump was asked whether he'd consider pardoning Diddy, especially after Homeland Security under the Biden administration raided his LA and Miami homes, leading to his arrest. 'I haven't seen him, I haven't spoken to him in years,' Trump said, according to ABC News. 'I don't know. I'd certainly look at the facts. If I think someone was mistreated, it wouldn't matter whether they like me or not.' Trump continued, 'First of all, I'd look at what's happening—and I haven't been watching it too closely, although it's definitely getting a lot of coverage.' Years ago, before Trump first ran for the White House and back when Diddy still had serious pull in the music industry, the two were spotted at fancy events like the 1997 US Open. But Trump said their relationship fizzled out once he got into politics.
'He used to really like me a lot, but I think when I ran for politics… that relationship busted up, from what I read. I don't know — he didn't tell me that, but I'd read some little bit nasty statements,' he said.
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This week, Trump pardoned 17 people and shortened sentences for 9 others. This includes Todd and Julie Chrisley, the reality TV couple convicted of tax evasion and fraud. The couple was convicted in 2022 for securing over $30 million in fraudulent loans and later declaring bankruptcy. Their show, Chrisley Knows Best, ran for 10 seasons. 'I don't know them, but give them my regards,' Trump reportedly said during a phone call with their advocate. 'They were given pretty harsh treatment based on what I'm hearing,' he added. 'I hear they're terrific people. This shouldn't have happened.' He then saved the Louisiana rapper NBA YoungBoy from prison time over gun charges. Trump had earlier granted clemency to a former Congressman and a union leader.
On the other hand, Diddy is facing five major criminal charges, and if found guilty, he could be sentenced to life in prison. Three weeks of trial are coming to a close, and several testimonies have been recorded, ranging from his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura to rapper Kid Cudi, former staff members, sex escorts he used to hire, and so on. Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
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