Colorado AG Alleges Trump's 'Revenge Campaign' Over Refused Pardon

It’s quite a strong accusation, really. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser recently leveled a pointed charge against former President Donald Trump, alleging that Trump is now engaged in a "revenge campaign" against the state. What’s spurred this rather dramatic claim? Well, it all boils down to Colorado’s refusal to pardon or even lighten the sentence of Tina Peters, a former county elections clerk whose legal troubles have certainly made headlines.

For those who might not recall the specifics, Tina Peters was the Mesa County clerk who, after the 2020 election, became something of a cause célèbre in certain circles. She was ultimately convicted of a couple of pretty serious charges: felony attempting to influence a public servant and a misdemeanor for official misconduct. Her crime, essentially, involved tampering with voting equipment, all under the guise, she claimed, of trying to prove voter fraud. She ended up with probation and a period of house arrest. Throughout her legal ordeal, Trump has been a very vocal supporter, often touting her as a "patriot."

So, the "revenge campaign" angle, as Weiser sees it, ties directly into Trump's more recent public statements. The former president has been actively urging various states to submit lists of potential pardons for individuals, many of whom are linked to the January 6th Capitol riot. Crucially, when making these appeals, Trump has repeatedly and specifically mentioned Tina Peters, effectively — or so Weiser implies — singling out Colorado for its prior stance.

Attorney General Weiser didn't mince words about it. He stressed that Colorado’s pardons board operates with complete independence, entirely free from political sway or pressure. Decisions regarding pardons and commutations in the state are made based on a rigorous set of criteria, not on who is asking or their political affiliations, he emphasized. It’s a process, you know, designed to uphold the integrity of the justice system, making sure it functions fairly and impartially for everyone involved.

This whole situation, honestly, serves as a stark reminder of the deep divisions that continue to ripple through the American political landscape, especially concerning election administration in the wake of 2020. Weiser was very clear that protecting election integrity and ensuring the rule of law are paramount. For him, the state's refusal to bend to external pressure isn't just about one individual's case; it's about safeguarding the very foundations of democratic processes.

Ultimately, Weiser’s message seems pretty unequivocal: Colorado will stick to its principles. The state's legal processes, particularly its independent pardons board, will not be swayed by political demands or perceived acts of retribution. It's a stand, it appears, for the autonomy of justice and the consistent application of law, no matter who is calling for what.