1. United States
2. Maine
3. Letter

I am writing to express my profound outrage and disbelief over former President Trump’s pardon of the ex-president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández—an individual whose actions devastated not only his own country, but also ours. His involvement in the massive trafficking of cocaine created real harm, fueling violence, addiction, and instability across Central America and the United States. To see someone responsible for such damage walk free is shocking on its own. But to have this pardon issued in the middle of an election cycle—clearly timed to influence both our political landscape and the political dynamics in Honduras—is reprehensible. It is difficult to interpret this as anything other than a calculated political maneuver, not an act rooted in justice, mercy, or national interest. Yes, a president has the legal authority to grant pardons. But that does not mean the use of that power should come without scrutiny, accountability, or consequence. A pardon is not a magic eraser for wrongdoing, nor should it be a tool for political leverage. When it is used to protect someone tied to immense criminal harm, it becomes an abuse of power that erodes public trust and undermines the rule of law. I urge you to speak out publicly and forcefully about this pardon, to support any legislative or oversight efforts that bring transparency to the pardon process, and to make it clear that no elected official is above accountability. The people of Honduras and the United States deserve better than to see justice manipulated for political gain. Thank you for your time and your service.