House Republicans Support Bill to Limit Presidential Pardon Powers

House Republicans have taken a notable step by backing a Democratic initiative aimed at curtailing the president’s ability to issue pardons.

Representative Don Bacon from Nebraska is among those who signed a bill spearheaded by Representative Johnny Olszewski of Maryland. This legislation would create a congressional review process for presidential pardons.

This move comes on the heels of President Donald Trump granting pardons to five former NFL players who were convicted of various offenses, such as perjury and drug trafficking.

Bacon expressed concerns over the use of pardons in his statement, mentioning, “Over multiple administrations, there have been valid questions about the application of this power, which has weakened Congress’s oversight capability. It’s evident that the pardon power has been exploited.”

Olszewski has linked this recent push for reform with actions from the Trump administration. His press release emphasized that the pardons exemplify a troubling trend of using presidential powers to benefit affluent individuals.

If this proposed amendment is approved, Congress could initiate a review of presidential pardons upon request from 20 House members and five senators. The remainder of the process would conclude with a congressional vote, needing a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate to revoke a pardon. Such a ruling would prevent a president from reissuing the same pardon to the same person.

Interestingly, when former President Joe Biden granted pardons to his family and allies, including his son Hunter, he garnered both Republican and some Democratic support, revealing some complex dynamics around pardoning practices.

Bacon, a moderate and former Air Force brigadier general, has declared his intention not to run for re-election. This puts him in a unique position, as he has joined others in Congress willing to confront Trump on several issues, including executive authority.

He’s also been vocal about tariffs, notably breaking ranks with fellow Republicans to vote alongside Democrats on lifting emergency measures regarding tariffs on Canada, arguing that Congress should have a say in such matters.

Fox News Digital attempted to get a response from the White House but had not received any comments as of yet.