POLITICS

Trump Pardons Former Honduran President Days Before Election

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Center 83%

Rigt 17%

Sources: 6

Washington — President Donald Trump announced Friday he will grant a full pardon to former Honduran president Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was convicted in a U.S. court in March 2024 of conspiring to import cocaine and later sentenced to 45 years. The announcement on social media came days before Honduras's closely contested presidential vote and reiterated Trump's endorsement of conservative candidate Nasry "Tito" Asfura, warning U.S. support could be withdrawn if Asfura loses. Hernandez has been appealing his conviction and is serving time at U.S. Penitentiary Hazelton. Lawyers for Hernandez praised the pardon. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Timeline

2014–2022: Juan Orlando Hernandez serves two presidential terms in Honduras.
Weeks after leaving office in 2022: Hernandez is extradited to the United States.
March 2024: A U.S. jury convicts Hernandez of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States.
June 2024 (reported): Hernandez receives a 45-year prison sentence and begins serving at USP Hazelton.
Days before Honduras's presidential vote: President Trump announces a full and complete pardon for Hernandez and reiterates support for Nasry 'Tito' Asfura.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5

Who Benefited

Juan Orlando Hernandez and conservative allies benefit politically through restored freedom, public rehabilitation, and strengthened ties with U.S.-aligned Honduran factions.

Who Suffered

Honduran civil institutions, voters, and anti-corruption efforts suffered increased political pressure and potential erosion of judicial accountability and foreign-aid conditionality.

Expert Opinion