RFK Jr. and Lee Zeldin pressed by Democrats on possible roles in Trump pardons
Updated on: October 9, 2026 / 2:04 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Democratic lawmakers have sent letters to RFK Jr. and Lee Zeldin requesting information on their potential involvement in President Trump's pardons.
- The letters specifically inquire about the pardons of Trevor Milton and Troy Lake, examining possible connections to donations and lobbying.
- Democrats express concern that influence and access may have overridden the standard pardon review process.
- If Democrats gain majority control, they plan to prioritize investigations into the 'pardon economy' and clemency for cash.
- The oversight letter to Kennedy references a report suggesting he advocated for Milton's pardon, though a source close to Kennedy denies he would advocate for pardons.