Alice Marie Johnson Appointed as Pardon Czar
Background of Alice Marie Johnson
Alice Marie Johnson, a former prisoner who received a pardon from President Trump in 2018, has been appointed as the "Pardon Czar." Her pardon came after serving 21 years in prison on nonviolent drug trafficking charges.
Priorities of the Pardon Czar
Johnson emphasized her commitment to fulfilling the trust entrusted to her by the President. Her priorities include:
- Assessing the readiness of individuals recommended for pardons, including job and housing availability.
- Ensuring the best chance of success for those reintegrating into their communities.
- Providing ongoing support, including mental health services, family counseling, and faith support.
Trump’s Focus on Family Support
Johnson highlighted President Trump’s emphasis on the families of those seeking pardons. He inquired about the availability of reentry programs for these individuals.
Trump’s Pardon Statistics
During his first term, President Trump issued 144 pardons. Upon returning to office in January 2021, he granted pardons to almost all participants in the January 6th Capitol riot.
Collaboration with Parole Authorities
Johnson clarified that her role as Pardon Czar does not involve working in concert with probation or parole authorities. Her focus is on providing support to individuals transitioning back into their communities.
Assessment Criteria
Johnson explained that her assessment of pardon candidates would consider their:
- Demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation efforts.
- Potential for a successful reintegration into society.
- Availability of a stable environment, including job and housing.
Support Services
Johnson emphasized the importance of providing various support services to pardoned individuals, including:
- Mental health counseling to address trauma and readjustment issues.
- Family counseling to strengthen family bonds and provide emotional support.
- Faith-based support to provide spiritual guidance and a sense of community.
Continuing the Work
Johnson views her appointment as a continuation of the work she has already been doing on behalf of nonviolent offenders. She has previously presented pardon cases to President Trump and advocated for the importance of rehabilitation and reentry programs.
Quote from Alice Marie Johnson
"I plan to fulfill the trust that the President has placed in me," said Johnson. "This is really a continuation of the work that I’ve already been doing. I’ve brought many pardon cases before the President in the past and one thing I can say about President Trump [is], he was very interested in their families. He wanted to know if they have a solid reentry program in place."
