Trump Pardons Nikola Founder Trevor Milton, Sparking Debate Over Justice and Political Influence

March 28, 2025
Trump Pardons Nikola Founder Trevor Milton, Sparking Debate Over Justice and Political Influence
  • Former President Donald Trump has pardoned Trevor Milton, the founder of electric truck company Nikola, who was convicted of fraud, asserting that Milton's conviction was 'very unfair.'

  • Milton's case highlights ongoing concerns about government misconduct and the justice system's integrity, resonating with many Americans.

  • Trump's administration continues to face criticism from various sectors, including the automotive industry, regarding proposed tariffs and their broader implications.

  • Milton had previously contributed over $2 million to political causes, primarily to Trump's Republican Party, highlighting the political connections involved in his case.

  • This pardon is part of a broader pattern, as Trump has previously pardoned other controversial figures in the transportation sector, including Anthony Levandowski.

  • Nikola Corp., which faced significant challenges leading to Milton's conviction, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and announced plans to sell its assets.

  • Following the pardon, Milton expressed relief and optimism about his future, stating that he could now reunite with his family.

  • Trump claimed that Milton was targeted for his support during the presidential campaign, stating that the legal proceedings destroyed five years of Milton's life.

  • Milton's fraudulent claims about Nikola's product capabilities resulted in substantial financial losses for investors, with some losing their retirement savings.

  • In 2022, Milton was found guilty of misleading investors regarding Nikola's technology and was sentenced to four years in prison, although he has yet to begin serving time due to an ongoing appeal.

  • The White House confirmed the pardon, but it was notably absent from their official website, raising questions about the announcement's legitimacy.

  • Milton's press release following the pardon criticized the justice system, drawing parallels between his case and Trump's, and suggesting systemic issues within the judiciary.

Summary based on 24 sources


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