Donald Trump is once again addressing the possibility of granting a presidential pardon to Sean “Diddy” Combs.
During a Friday (Aug. 1) interview on Newsmax’s Finnerty, the president was asked whether he would consider pardoning Combs following his recent federal conviction. In early July, the Bad Boy Records mogul was found guilty of transportation with intent to engage in prostitution, though he was acquitted of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering.
“Well, he was essentially, I guess, sort of half-innocent,” Trump told host Rob Finnerty. “He’s still in jail or something, but he was celebrating a victory. But I guess it wasn’t as good of a victory.”
Trump also reflected on his past relationship with Combs, noting they were once “very friendly” and that he “got along with him great.” However, he said that dynamic shifted when he entered politics, describing Combs as having become “very hostile.”
This isn’t the first time Trump has commented on the case. During an Oval Office press briefing in late May, he was asked by Fox News’ Peter Doocy whether he would consider a pardon for Combs. At the time, Trump said he’d “look at the facts,” acknowledging their former rapport while insisting personal feelings wouldn’t influence his decision.
“I haven’t spoken to him in years,” Trump said. “He used to really like me a lot. I think when I ran for politics, that relationship busted up. … I would certainly look at the facts. If I think somebody was mistreated, whether they like me or don’t like me, it wouldn’t have any impact on me.”
Combs’ partial acquittal followed seven weeks of testimony, including statements from singer Cassie Ventura, who accused him of abuse and trafficking during their relationship. Combs has denied all allegations. He now faces up to 20 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for Oct. 3.
Watch Trump’s full response on Finnerty about pardoning Diddy in a clip posted on X.
This story originally appeared on Billboard
