Trump Weighs 250 Pardons for July 4; Crypto Figures Seek Relief

The White House is weighing roughly 250 presidential pardons timed to the nation’s 250th birthday, with officials considering a mass package that could be announced on July 4.

President Trump has issued more than 1,600 acts of clemency during his current term. In 2025 the administration granted clemency to Binance founder Changpeng Zhao after a guilty plea on anti–money laundering charges. Earlier that year the BitMEX co‑founders and Ross Ulbricht received relief.

The possible July 4 package has prompted renewed clemency campaigns from several crypto figures. Sam Bankman‑Fried has run a public campaign for relief; the president denied his petition in January. Roger Ver retained political operative Roger Stone, recorded a video plea and has sought support from technology leaders. Elon Musk has explored backing Ver’s case.

Ethereum co‑founder Vitalik Buterin wrote, “Genuine good faith mistakes should be treated by giving the actor the opportunity to pay back taxes if needed with interest and penalties, not with prosecution.” Other industry figures have called for repayment and penalties in place of prosecutions in some cases.

Keonne Rodriguez, CEO of Samourai Wallet, has drawn presidential attention; the president said he would “look at” Rodriguez’s case. Joby Weeks, who pleaded guilty to tax charges tied to a crypto mining scheme, and former FTX executive Ryan Salame are seeking inclusion. Some advocates have urged clemency for Do Kwon, founder of the collapsed Terra/Luna ecosystem.

The Senate has opened inquiries into the administration’s crypto-related pardons. Officials and advocates say a bundled release could affect how prosecutors, exchanges and regulators view enforcement and legal risk for operating in the U.S.

Public statements for and against specific pardons have continued. Collin Rugg wrote, “Ulbricht was sentenced to two life sentences, plus 40 years, a sentence worse than the worst drug sellers on the site.” The White House has not confirmed a final tally or a date. Officials say any final list could surface in weeks rather than months.