He indicates that while the use of pardons for those not yet charged is unprecedented, legal scholars have suggested it remains within the president's authority.

“there's not really clear precedent there. the closest thing would probably be Gerald Ford pardoning Richard Nixon in 1974, even though he hadn't been charged with any crimes. but you do have some legal scholars who spoke with the New York Times saying that he is within the boundaries of his authorit”

Donald Trump intends to use his pardon power to secure Ghislaine Maxwell's silence or cooperation regarding the Epstein files.

“So, there are certainly the ingredients for a quidd proquo from a president who is a pro at quidd proquoing.”

He argues that pardoning Ross Ulbricht was a significant act that fulfilled a campaign promise to the libertarian movement.

“I decided two weeks before the election um to endorse Trump myself and I called him up and he answered the phone we we talked a little bit and I said well what should my endorsement say and um he brought up Ross wow to me”