Jeffrey Toobin on Presidential Pardons Power Politics and the Legacy of Mercy

In this episode of That Said with Michael Zeldin, Jeffrey Toobin returns to discuss his compelling new book, The Pardon: The Politics of Presidential Mercy.

Toobin, now a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times, joins Michael for a deep dive into the controversial history and constitutional complexity of presidential pardons. From George Washington’s response to the Whiskey Rebellion to Gerald Ford’s historic pardon of Richard Nixon—and its echoes in today’s political climate—this conversation examines how the pardon power offers a revealing x-ray into the soul of a president.

Together, they unpack how this unique executive authority has been used for mercy, politics, and, at times, self-preservation. With historical insight and timely parallels to contemporary legal battles, Toobin helps listeners make sense of a tool that continues to shape the presidency and public trust.

Listen now for a powerful conversation on law, leadership, and the lasting consequences of presidential grace.