Congressional Democrats have opened an investigation into whether pardons and sentence commutations issued by President Donald Trump were influenced by political connections, lobbying, or financial contributions, according to letters obtained by CBS News.
The probe focuses on several high-profile clemency recipients, including Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, Nikola founder Trevor Milton, and nursing home operator Joseph Schwartz. Lawmakers are seeking records tied to lobbying efforts, donations, and communications with Trump administration officials.
SCOOP: Trump pardon recipients are facing a new Senate + House investigation over “pay to play” lobbying questions, said Democrats, who - per sources - plan to prioritize the probe including if they take back either chamber in the midtermshttps://t.co/XUCnb5BSq5
— Gabe Kaminsky (@gekaminsky) May 7, 2026
According to the report, Democrats argue that some pardons erased large restitution payments owed to victims of fraud and financial crimes. They claim the clemency decisions may have benefited Trump allies and wealthy donors.
The White House rejected allegations of wrongdoing. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said paying lobbyists for pardons would be a waste of money and insisted the administration follows a “robust pardon review process.”
The report said Democrats currently lack subpoena power but could expand investigations if they regain control of Congress after the midterm elections.
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