The 47th U.S. President Donald Trump has broken his silence on the growing speculation surrounding whether he might consider granting a presidential pardon to embattled music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is currently embroiled in a series of high-profile legal challenges.
Trump addressed the topic during a wide-ranging Friday interview on Newsmax’s “Finnerty,” hosted by Rob Finnerty. The conversation initially focused on campaign strategy and national security but took an unexpected turn when Finnerty posed a direct question about Diddy’s recent legal woes and the possibility of clemency.
As previously reported, the hip-hop entrepreneur was convicted on two counts under the Mann Act, a federal law that criminalizes the transportation of individuals across state lines for immoral purposes, such as prostitution. Although these charges alone carry potentially lengthy prison sentences, Diddy was acquitted of more serious allegations, including racketeering and sex trafficking, which had drawn the most public scrutiny.
When asked if he would consider a pardon for the rapper and music executive, Trump appeared thoughtful but noncommittal. “I was very friendly with Diddy once. We got along great. He seemed like a nice guy,” the former president stated, reflecting on their past interactions before political tensions surfaced.
However, Trump didn’t shy away from acknowledging that their relationship later cooled, pointing out that Diddy had been outspokenly critical of him during his time in office and on the campaign trail. “When I ran for office, he was very hostile toward me. That type of thing can cloud our judgment sometimes,” Trump added, hinting at how personal dynamics may complicate political decisions.
While he stopped short of taking a clear stance, Trump noted that he would need to review the full details of Diddy’s case before making any formal determination. His remarks left political commentators and the public speculating whether a pardon remains a genuine possibility or merely a diplomatic response to a controversial question.
Meanwhile, Sean “Diddy” Combs remains in legal uncertainty. He is currently awaiting a decision on his most recent bail motion, as well as his sentencing hearing, which is scheduled for October. Legal analysts say the Mann Act conviction could result in substantial prison time, depending on how the court interprets the specifics of his case.
Watch the video below …
Q: Sean Diddy Combs. Would you consider pardoning him?
Well, he was essentially, I guess, sort of half innocent. Probably— I was very friendly with him but when I ran for office he was very hostile and it’s hard. So, I don’t know, it’s more difficult.
Q: More likely a no?… pic.twitter.com/FrrzquR6qs
— Acyn (@Acyn) August 2, 2025