Support the Pardon Integrity Act Constitutional Amendment

I am writing to urge you to cosponsor the Pardon Integrity Act, a constitutional amendment that would establish a congressional check on presidential pardons. This bipartisan measure, introduced by Rep. Johnny Olszewski and recently joined by Rep. Don Bacon, addresses a pattern of pardon abuse that has spanned multiple administrations. The amendment creates a narrow but meaningful accountability mechanism. It would allow 20 House members and five senators to force a vote to nullify a presidential pardon, with nullification requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers. This high threshold ensures the check applies only in cases of clear abuse while preserving the pardon power for legitimate uses. Recent events demonstrate why this reform is necessary. President Trump has pardoned thousands of January 6 defendants, including many charged with assaulting law enforcement during the 2021 Capitol riot. He has also granted clemency to former Rep. George Santos, former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, and five former NFL players convicted of financial and drug-related crimes. This follows a troubling pattern across administrations, from Bill Clinton's pardon of Marc Rich to Joe Biden's pardon of his son Hunter. As Rep. Bacon stated, while presidential pardons are an important constitutional authority, it is clear the pardon authority has been abused. The Pardon Integrity Act ensures the pardon power is used fairly and responsibly, regardless of who occupies the White House. I recognize that constitutional amendments face significant hurdles, requiring two-thirds majorities in both chambers and ratification by 38 states. However, the bipartisan support this measure has already garnered suggests Americans across the political spectrum recognize the need for accountability. I urge you to add your voice to this effort by cosponsoring the Pardon Integrity Act and working toward its passage.