Presidential pardons, explained

Presidents have almost unlimited power to grant clemency for federal crimes — but they don't always use it wisely

President Richard Nixon meets with then-House Minority Leader Gerald Ford at the White House in 1973.
(Image credit: Everett Collection Historical / Alamy Stock Photo)

Presidents have almost unlimited power to grant clemency for federal crimes — but they don't always use it wisely. Here's everything you need to know:

Why was this power created?

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