Trump’s latest pardon push targets convicted Whitmer kidnapping plotters, sparking a clash over FBI tactics, extremism, and the rule of law.
At a Glance
- Trump is considering pardons for men convicted in the 2020 Whitmer kidnapping plot
- Sentences included 19+ years for Barry Croft Jr. and 16 years for Adam Fox
- The defense and Trump cite FBI entrapment as a central concern
- Justice Department pardon attorney Ed Martin called the case “fed-knapping”
- Nine men tied to the Wolverine Watchmen were ultimately convicted
Trump Revives a Controversial Case
Former President Donald Trump is again making headlines for considering pardons—this time for the convicted conspirators behind the 2020 plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. During recent comments, Trump referred to the case as a “railroad job,” signaling that his administration may be reviewing the convictions with a view toward clemency.
At the center of the legal storm are Barry Croft Jr. and Adam Fox, whom prosecutors labeled ringleaders of the extremist Wolverine Watchmen group. The two were sentenced to more than 19 and 16 years respectively after a high-profile trial that included evidence of explosives purchases, surveillance of Whitmer’s vacation home, and paramilitary training.
Watch a report: Trump Eyes Pardons in Whitmer Plot Case.
Trump downplayed the severity of the plot, suggesting the men were “drinking” and “said stupid things”—comments that critics argue minimize the gravity of what law enforcement classified as a domestic terror attempt.
FBI Tactics Under Fire
Fueling Trump’s reconsideration are entrapment claims made during the defense. Attorneys for Croft and Fox argued that undercover FBI agents not only infiltrated the group but played an active role in shaping the plot. These assertions resonated with Trump and with newly appointed Justice Department pardon attorney Ed Martin, who referred to the event as “fed-knapping.”
Martin has likened the case to the January 6 prosecutions, where Trump granted sweeping pardons on his first day in office. As part of this broader pattern, Trump’s review of the Whitmer case may signal a continuation of his posture against federal law enforcement and in defense of far-right actors.
Such statements have alarmed legal experts who warn that pardoning individuals involved in domestic terrorism plots could undermine trust in the justice system and embolden extremist movements.
Political and Legal Repercussions
The case remains one of the most politically divisive prosecutions stemming from the COVID-era protests and escalating militancy on the far right. Trump’s characterization of the defendants as misguided rather than dangerous is already drawing backlash, particularly from Democratic lawmakers and civil rights groups who view the pardon push as a betrayal of justice.
On the other hand, Trump’s allies argue that federal overreach must be curbed. Martin has reportedly begun reviewing sentencing documents, and legal insiders suggest a decision could come within weeks.
The outcome could reignite debate over federal sting operations, the definition of domestic terrorism, and the extent of presidential pardon power. As the 2024 election cycle intensifies, this issue places Trump once again at the volatile intersection of law, politics, and public safety.
