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Gary Stager

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President Obama Should Pardon John Edwards

Posted: 01/18/12 02:50 PM ET

President Obama should use his constitutional power to Pardon former Senator John Edwards. There, I said it!

I can think of no case more deserving of executive mercy than this one.

A pardon would cause prosecutors to drop the criminal campaign finance case against former Senator, Vice Presidential and Presidential candidate, John Edwards. Clearly, Senator Edwards has suffered enough in his life having lost his son, wife and reputation. Now that he is facing a life-threatening heart condition, this father of four children should not have to endure the stress of a trial for an alleged crime never before prosecuted. His three young children do not deserve to be orphaned by jail or an early grave.

Americans can argue the merits of the novel prosecution or Edwards' loathsome behavior and betrayal. However, the last time I checked, hiding a mistress from your beloved wife is not a death penalty offense.

In the age of Citizens United, there is no political cost associated with granting a sick father of four a new lease on life.

 

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roy brophy
Dyslexic F. O. "Sorry!"
05:10 PM on 03/03/2012
Can't think of anyone more deserving?
How about anyone in jail for growing Marijuana, making Moonshine whisky or prostitution?
06:36 AM on 01/27/2012
John Edwards is not guilty of any felony charges. He is not that stupid. In no way would a candidate for President use public campaign funds to 'cover up' a relationship with his mistress.

I am certain his heart condition is caused by extreme stress and do not believe he has an organic heart problem.

Drop the charges and stop wasting taxpayer's money on absurd law suits like this one.

He should not have had a relationship with another woman but these things happen and as utterly idiotic as it seems,that a man of such great intelligence would commit such a blunder,is found countless times throughout history.

He may be guilty of poor judgment but there are no viable legal ones!!!
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JoAnnCr
03:30 PM on 01/20/2012
I agree. Doesn't he have to be convicted to be pardoned?
11:46 PM on 01/18/2012
I agree. The prosection appears to me to be highly politically motivated. Unfortunately, Obama may not be able to get away with a pardon at this time. He may do damage to his reelection chances if he acts now.

And he needs to win. While I do not have the highest regard for Obama, and have hoped from time to time that a more liberal challenger might emerge, at this point Obama appears to be the best among the bad choices.
10:40 PM on 01/18/2012
Wow ! That was brave. It sure would be nice to see those kids spared more heartache.
03:14 PM on 01/18/2012
No. We are all equal to the law!