1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support the joint resolution proposed by Representatives Cohen, Johnson of Georgia, and Levin that would amend the Constitution to place necessary limitations on the presidential pardon power. This amendment addresses a critical vulnerability in our system of checks and balances that has become increasingly apparent. The proposed amendment would prohibit the President from pardoning themselves, their immediate family members, their relatives, paid presidential campaign employees, and anyone who committed offenses at the President's direction or in coordination with the President. It would also invalidate any pardon issued for a corrupt purpose and bar pardons for offenses motivated by the direct personal or financial interests of these protected individuals. These restrictions are essential to prevent the pardon power from becoming a tool for personal protection rather than an instrument of justice and mercy. The Founders could not have anticipated a scenario where the pardon power might be weaponized to shield a President's inner circle from accountability for crimes committed on their behalf or for their benefit. When pardons serve personal interests rather than the public good, they undermine the fundamental principle that no one is above the law. The amendment preserves the President's legitimate use of clemency while closing loopholes that enable corruption. It does not prevent pardons for deserving individuals who have no connection to the President's personal interests. Instead, it ensures that the pardon power cannot be used as a get-out-of-jail-free card for those in the President's orbit. This reform enjoys broad support because Americans across the political spectrum recognize that accountability must apply equally to everyone, regardless of their proximity to power. I urge you to vote in favor of this constitutional amendment in the Judiciary Committee and work toward its passage. Our democracy depends on maintaining clear boundaries around executive power, and this amendment provides exactly that protection.