Steve Bannon Heads to Trial Over Border Wall Fraud: No Trump Pardon in Sight
Steve Bannon, a fiery ally of President-elect Donald Trump and one of his most vocal supporters, is set to face trial on February 25, 2024, in a high-stakes legal battle over alleged financial crimes tied to a border wall fundraising effort. This time, a presidential pardon won’t save him.
Manhattan DA Accuses Bannon of Serious Financial Crimes
The Manhattan District Attorney’s case accuses Bannon of money laundering, conspiracy, and defrauding donors through the now-defunct organization We Build the Wall. The group raised millions during Trump’s first term, promising to construct a privately funded wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Prosecutors allege Bannon and others misappropriated funds, using donations for personal gain. Bannon denies the charges, calling them “nonsense” and accusing DA Alvin Bragg of political bias.
Trump’s Past Pardon Holds No Weight Here
This trial contrasts sharply with 2021, when Trump pardoned Bannon on similar federal charges during his final days in office. However, presidential pardons do not extend to state-level charges, leaving Bannon exposed to prosecution in New York.
Originally scheduled for November 2023, the trial has faced delays but is now set to unfold as Trump prepares to begin his second term in January. The trial’s timing could overshadow the early days of his presidency, forcing Trump to grapple with public scrutiny over his association with Bannon.
A Troubled Legal Record
Bannon recently served a four-month federal prison sentence for defying a congressional subpoena related to the January 6 Capitol attack investigation. While his federal conviction remains, Trump has hinted at broad pardons for January 6 participants but has not confirmed whether Bannon would be included.
If Trump offers Bannon a federal pardon, it could mitigate some of his legal challenges. However, the current state charges related to We Build the Wall remain beyond the president’s reach, emphasizing the gravity of the upcoming trial.
Courtroom Drama to Test Trump-Bannon Ties
This trial revisits one of the most divisive issues of Trump’s presidency—the border wall. The allegations against Bannon further complicate his legacy and raise questions about Trump’s continued support for his former senior adviser. The February trial promises intense public and political scrutiny, testing both Bannon’s defense and his enduring relationship with Trump.