Donald Trump refused to dismiss the possibility of a pardon for Sean “Diddy“ Combs, even though the rap tycoon is currently on trial on sex trafficking and other serious charges.
The president said he was aware that he might be asked for clemency.
“Nobody’s asked,” he told reporters. “But I know people are thinking about it. I think some people have been very close to asking.
“First of all, I’d look at what’s happening. And I haven’t been watching it too closely.
“I haven’t spoken to him in years.
“He used to really like me a lot, but I think when I ran for politics, he sort of- that relationship busted up, from what I read, I don’t know. He didn’t tell me that, but I’d read some little bit nasty statements in the paper all of a sudden,” said Trump.
“So, I don’t know. I would certainly look at the facts. If I think somebody was mistreated, whether they like me or don’t like me, wouldn’t have any impact,” he added
He added: “It’s not a popularity contest, so I don’t know. I would certainly look at the facts.”
He was asked the question by Fox News’s Peter Doocy, who remarked that Trump called Combs a good friend during an episode of ‘The Apprentice.’
Combs, 55, is nearly two weeks into a New York trial that has been notable for the behavior of guests at the rap star’s so-called “Freak-Off” parties.
He has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution and could face up to life in prison if he is convicted.
His trial, which began on May 12, is expected to last five weeks.
The rapper’s former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, has given nearly 20 hours of graphic testimony explaining how Combs allegedly used blackmail and violent acts to persuade her to take part in the drug-fueled orgies.
Trump has pardoned hundreds of people since beginning his second term in January, including almost all of the January 6 defendants.
This week, he pardoned TV reality stars Julie and Todd Chrisley, who had been convicted of tax evasion and bank fraud.
