Former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly weighing the option of granting a pardon to hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who was convicted earlier this month on two counts of violating the federal Mann Act.
While no formal clemency request has been filed, sources close to Trump’s camp suggest the matter is under serious review, stirring controversy and renewed attention from both political and entertainment circles.
On July 2, 2025, Combs was found guilty by a federal jury on two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for illicit purposes, in violation of the Mann Act.
The case, which drew widespread media coverage, centered on allegations that Combs facilitated travel for women who later engaged in sexual activity under coercive or exploitative circumstances. He was acquitted on more serious charges of racketeering and sex trafficking.
The conviction carries a potential prison sentence of up to four years. Combs’ legal team has requested a $50 million bail ahead of sentencing, which is scheduled for October 3, 2025.
News of the possible pardon has drawn mixed reactions. Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly criticized the idea, arguing that issuing clemency to Combs—who still faces multiple civil suits, including a high-profile one filed by singer Cassie Ventura—would undermine public trust in the justice system.
Hip-hop artist 50 Cent also reacted publicly, voicing his disapproval in a social media post. “If Trump’s really thinking about pardoning that guy, I’ll personally make sure he hears how we feel,” he wrote.
On the other hand, some of Trump’s supporters have defended the potential move, noting that the conviction involved a relatively narrow statute and that Trump’s pattern of celebrity pardons during his presidency set a precedent.
During his term, Trump issued pardons or commutations to a number of celebrities and public figures, including:Lil Wayne, facing federal firearm charges, Kodak Black, serving time for weapons-related offenses, Roger Stone and Michael Flynn, allies convicted in connection to the Mueller probe,reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley, whose sentences were commuted late in his term
These decisions were often controversial but broadly consistent with Trump’s stated position of challenging what he called politically motivated prosecutions.
If granted, a presidential pardon would nullify Combs’ conviction and prevent further sentencing. It would not, however, impact any ongoing or future civil litigation.
The former president is reportedly awaiting the outcome of Combs’ bail hearing in early September before deciding on the timing of any potential action. Legal analysts say the absence of a formal clemency petition does not legally prevent Trump from issuing a pardon at any time before or after sentencing.
White House officials and Trump’s official communications team have so far declined to comment on the matter.
The Mann Act, enacted in 1910, prohibits the transportation of individuals across state lines for immoral purposes, including prostitution. Although originally framed to combat human trafficking, it has been criticized over the years for vague language and inconsistent application.
In Combs’ case, prosecutors argued that the music executive used his influence and resources to facilitate interstate travel under the guise of business, which ultimately led to exploitative scenarios.
The jury, while acquitting him on broader criminal conspiracy charges, determined there was sufficient evidence to support the two Mann Act violations.
Combs remains out on temporary release while awaiting the court’s decision on his bail request.
His legal team continues to deny all wrongdoing and has indicated they are preparing grounds for appeal.