Trump Claims Pardon for State Conviction
President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he is granting a “full pardon” to Tina Peters, the former Mesa County, Colorado, elections clerk. Peters is serving a nine-year sentence for giving unauthorized access to county voting machines during the 2020 election. Trump framed the pardon as recognition of Peters’ efforts to investigate alleged voter fraud.
State Officials Reject Trump’s Authority
Colorado officials quickly rejected the claim. They emphasized that presidential pardons apply only to federal crimes. Attorney General Phil Weiser called the pardon unconstitutional, noting that states control their own criminal justice systems. Secretary of State Jena Griswold highlighted that Peters was convicted by a jury and remains under state supervision. They stressed that Trump cannot legally intervene in her case.
Details of Peters’ Conviction
Peters was convicted in August 2024 on seven state charges. These included conspiracy, criminal impersonation, and attempting to influence a public servant. She allowed an ally of Trump to access election software. Right-wing websites later used the information to promote false claims of voter fraud. Peters’ attorneys argue her actions preserved election records. They are preparing an appeal scheduled for January 2026.
Next Steps and Legal Challenges
Colorado courts denied a request to transfer Peters to federal custody. Therefore, she remains under state supervision. Trump’s announcement does not change her legal status. The claim is largely symbolic but may spark legal debate over presidential pardon limits. Meanwhile, the case continues to fuel discussions about election security and federal versus state authority.
