Part 3/5:
In response, Jean-Pierre acknowledged the evolving situation, highlighting that the president had “wrestled” with the decision before ultimately deciding to grant the pardon. Her explanations were met with skepticism, as reporters pointed out the apparent contradiction between past assurances and the current reality.
“I know what I said. I know what the president said. That is where we were at the time,” Jean-Pierre stated, indicating the complexity of presidential decisions. The press secretary reiterated the emotional toll that the decision had taken on the president. However, her reiteration of the decision being “difficult” did little to quell the controversy.