President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his intention to pardon reality television figures Todd and Julie Chrisley, who have been convicted for tax evasion and bank fraud leading to substantial prison sentences.
During a phone conversation with the couple’s daughter, Savannah Chrisley, Trump described the situation as “a terrible thing, but it’s a great thing because your parents are going to be free and clean.”
He expressed hope that the pardons could be finalized shortly, mentioning, “I hope we can do it by tomorrow,” as per a video shared on X by Margo Martin, a special assistant to the president.
Trump added, “I don’t know them, but give them my regards,” indicating his support for the Chrisleys.
Since returning to the White House, Trump has issued several notable pardons, often surrounding high-profile and contentious cases involving white-collar crime.
Todd and Julie Chrisley gained fame through their reality show “Chrisley Knows Best” and were convicted in 2022 of conspiring to deceive banks in Atlanta to secure over $36 million in personal loans, as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.
The couple was also found guilty of conspiring to defraud the Internal Revenue Service.
Todd Chrisley received a 12-year prison sentence, while Julie was sentenced to seven years.
In the ongoing fight for her parents, Savannah Chrisley has actively sought a pardon, revealing to PEOPLE in February that she was pursuing the proper channels.
She has previously dined at the White House, as documented in a post on Instagram.
Additionally, Savannah spoke at last year’s Republican National Convention, where she criticized the prosecutors involved in her parents’ case.
Earlier this month, she made an appearance on “My View,” a talk show hosted by Lara Trump, the daughter-in-law of President Trump, on the Finance Newso News Channel.
