The White House is confirming that Pres. Trump has pardon former Honduran Pres. Juan Orlando Hernandez.
Juan Orlando Hernández was pardoned by President Trump even though he had been convicted in U.S. federal court for helping traffickers move massive quantities of cocaine into the United States.
Prosecutors said he used Honduran police and military forces to protect drug shipments and took millions in cartel bribes, making his case one of the most significant narco-corruption prosecutions in recent years.
The pardon sparks controversy because critics argue it undermines U.S. anti-drug efforts, damages credibility in combating corruption, and appears tied to Trump’s political interests in Honduras. Supporters claim the conviction relied too heavily on cooperating witnesses, but the scale of the evidence has made the pardon a highly debated and consequential decision.
President Trump will hold a cabinet meeting today, Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
Time: The meeting is scheduled to begin at 11:30 AM ET (which is 9:30 AM in your local Mountain Standard Time).
Context: Reports indicate this is his ninth cabinet meeting since returning to the White House.
Following the meeting, he is also expected to make an announcement regarding a new "Trump Accounts" savings initiative.
"Trump Accounts" are government-backed investment accounts for children created under the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Each eligible child receives a $1,000 starter contribution, and parents, guardians, or employers can add up to $5,000 per year until the child turns 18. The money must be invested in broad U.S. stock-market funds and grows tax-deferred, giving children a financial head start for adulthood. Supporters say the program helps build long-term wealth, while critics argue it may benefit higher-income families more because contributions are voluntary.
