Adam Kinzinger has responded forcefully to Trump’s declaration on a pardon void during a recent CNN appearance. Kinzinger claims to be ready to move beyond the controversy while simultaneously challenging Trump to bring charges if he intends to pursue legal action. What legal standing does Kinzinger have if Trump attempts to invalidate his pardon?
Kinzinger Challenges Trump on Pardon Revocation
Former Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger appeared on CNN’s “The Lead” with Jake Tapper, boldly declaring he would “crush” President Donald Trump in court if Trump attempts to void his pardon. During the interview, Tapper referenced a preemptive pardon Kinzinger allegedly received, which Trump had subsequently declared void.
The confrontation stems from Trump’s recent statements suggesting he would invalidate pardons related to the January 6th Committee’s work upon returning to office. Kinzinger questioned Trump’s motives, suggesting these declarations were primarily made to generate attention rather than reflecting serious legal considerations.
Jake Tapper: What was your reaction when you saw Trump's post last night? Declaring your preemptive pardon void and vacant?
Adam Kinzinger: "Bring it on! Like, honestly…! There is one person that's obsessed about the sixth (J6) because he still has been basically deemed… pic.twitter.com/VZCRd5a997
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) March 17, 2025
Ready for Legal Battle While Moving Forward
Despite his combative stance toward Trump, Kinzinger expressed a readiness to move on from the January 6th events, acknowledging America’s decision in the recent election. His comments reflected a balance between defending his legal rights and recognizing the political reality that many Americans have made their choice at the ballot box.
However, Kinzinger directly challenged Trump to bring charges if that was his intention, expressing confidence in defeating the president in court. His defiant “bring it on” attitude demonstrated that while he may be ready to move forward, he remains prepared to defend himself against what he views as political retribution.
Adam Kinzinger Has a Fiery Message for Donald Trump If He Seeks to Charge Him for J6 Lies: 'Bring It!'
"So, my reaction to him is like, you know what? Then bring it! Like, stop talking about it! Stop being all verbose. Stop pretending like you’re tough."
"Bring the charges then… pic.twitter.com/kgcUfbrKKG
— Kyle Becker (@kylenabecker) March 18, 2025
Constitutional Questions and Political Implications
The dispute raises significant constitutional questions about the scope of presidential pardon powers and whether they can be revoked by subsequent administrations. Legal experts have generally maintained that presidential pardons, once issued, cannot be invalidated by a future president, as the power is explicitly granted in the Constitution without provisions for revocation.
This political standoff between Kinzinger and Trump exemplifies the continuing divisions within the Republican Party regarding the events of January 6th and their aftermath. Kinzinger, who was one of the few Republicans to serve on the January 6th Committee, remains an outspoken critic of Trump despite no longer holding congressional office.