Senate Passes Resolution Opposing Presidential Pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell

The Senate passed a resolution on July 29, 2026, stating that Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted of sex trafficking and assisted Jeffrey Epstein in abusing underage girls, should not receive a presidential pardon. The resolution was passed unanimously, with Republicans not objecting, thereby indicating their agreement that the president should not grant any form of executive clemency to Maxwell. The resolution emphasizes the Senate's support for victims of sexual exploitation and trafficking and its commitment to justice and accountability. Senate resolutions are symbolic and non-binding. Recently, a similar resolution was passed regarding potential clemency for FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried. Although President Trump has not ruled out a pardon for Maxwell, he has not indicated any plans to issue one. Following the Supreme Court's decision to decline Maxwell's appeal in October 2025, Trump stated he would consider the matter but had no definitive stance. Additionally, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche informed senators that he would not recommend a pardon for Maxwell, having personally interviewed her as part of the Justice Department's investigation into Epstein.