Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters is at the center of a controversial pardon claim by former President Donald Trump. On December 12, 2025, Trump asserted on social media that he had granted Peters a full pardon for her actions related to the 2020 Presidential Election. This statement was shared on his Truth Social platform and included his typically sensational language.
Tina Peters and the 2020 Election Controversy
Peters has been a vocal supporter of the unproven claims of election fraud surrounding the 2020 election. She is currently incarcerated in Colorado after being convicted of facilitating unauthorized access to voting equipment and records. A jury found her guilty of multiple felonies, which resulted in a sentence exceeding eight years.
Details of Trump’s Pardon Claim
In his post, Trump described Peters as a “Patriot” who was unfairly targeted by opposing political factions. He claimed she was imprisoned for advocating “Honest Elections,” in an attempt to reinforce the narrative of a compromised election. However, numerous investigations have confirmed that the 2020 election was fair, with only minor irregularities.
Legal Limitations of a Presidential Pardon
The legality of Trump’s purported pardon is questionable. Since Peters was convicted in a state court, Trump’s presidential powers do not extend to state crimes. Only Colorado Governor Jared Polis has the authority to grant pardons for state offenses.
- Peters’ Conviction: Found guilty of assisting unauthorized access to election equipment.
- Prison Sentence: Over eight years for her conviction.
- Political Response: Governor Polis reaffirmed that only state courts can address her conviction.
Legal Arguments Presented
Peters’ attorney, Peter Ticktin, recently sent a letter to Trump requesting a pardon. He argued that the presidential pardon power, as stated in the U.S. Constitution, might extend to offenses against state laws. This interpretation, however, lacks judicial precedent and raises questions about its validity.
Official Responses to Trump’s Claim
By the evening of December 12, the U.S. Department of Justice had not recorded any official pardon for Peters, despite Trump’s announcement. Governor Polis stated that Trump’s claims do not hold legal weight and confirmed that any pardon from the president for a state conviction would be invalid. Secretary of State Jena Griswold echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that the constitution does not grant Trump authority over state law.
As of now, the situation surrounding Peters highlights the complexities of the legal system regarding pardons. The public and political figures continue to react to Trump’s controversial assertions about her case.
