“No MAGA Left Behind”: Trump’s Pardon Attorney Defends Controversial Pardon
In a deeply controversial move, Ed Martin, President Trump’s newly appointed Pardon Attorney, is under fire after publicly thanking Trump for issuing an unconditional pardon to Scott Jenkins—a Virginia sheriff convicted of accepting $75,000 in bribes.
Martin took to Twitter to celebrate the decision, posting:
“No MAGA left behind.”
This statement has sparked intense backlash across social media and political circles, with critics accusing Martin of implying that political loyalty to Trump now overrides legal accountability.
Who Is Scott Jenkins?
Scott Jenkins, a former sheriff, was convicted on federal corruption charges after it was revealed he accepted large bribes in exchange for helping individuals secure law enforcement credentials and favors. His conviction was seen as part of a broader crackdown on abuse of power in law enforcement.
The unconditional pardon, however, completely erased Jenkins’ conviction—justified solely by his apparent allegiance to Trump.
The Real Message Behind the Pardon?
Many are interpreting Ed Martin’s “no MAGA left behind” tweet as a dangerous signal: that those who support Trump may have legal immunity under his administration, regardless of criminal conduct.
“It’s terrifying,” one legal analyst noted. “This isn’t just about a pardon—it’s about reshaping the justice system around political loyalty.”
Critics warn that this kind of rhetoric opens the door to unprecedented abuse of presidential pardon powers and sends a chilling message about the politicization of justice.
A Political Pardon or a Precedent?
This incident is not the first time Trump’s pardon decisions have stirred controversy. During his first term, Trump issued pardons to several allies and supporters, including Roger Stone, Michael Flynn, and Steve Bannon.
What makes this case different, however, is the language used by a federal official—Ed Martin—who seems to imply that loyalty to Trump is now a qualification for clemency.
“You can commit any crimes as long as you support the president’s politics,” one viral post stated, echoing the public’s growing alarm.
Where Does This Leave Justice?
With another presidential election looming, the implications of such decisions could prove devastating to public trust in the justice system.
As the debate intensifies, one question remains:
Is the rule of law still sacred—or has it become just another tool of political power?