In a surprising turn of events, former Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vázquez has been granted a presidential pardon by former US President Donald Trump. This comes after Vázquez accepted a plea deal in 2025 for her involvement in a bribery scheme during her time in office.
Vázquez, who served as the 12th governor of Puerto Rico from 2019 to 2021, was accused of participating in a corruption scheme that allegedly saw her accept bribes in exchange for political favours and contracts. The charges, which were brought forward by US federal prosecutors, claimed that Vázquez had received thousands of dollars in illicit campaign contributions and other financial benefits.
Despite initially denying the allegations, Vázquez eventually agreed to plead guilty to the charges in 2025, admitting her role in the bribery scheme. As part of the plea deal, she was sentenced to a term of imprisonment, the details of which were not made public.
However, in a last-minute move, former President Trump has decided to pardon Vázquez, effectively wiping her criminal record clean. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising it as an act of compassion and others criticising it as a political manoeuvre.
“This pardon is a slap in the face to the people of Puerto Rico,” said local activist and community leader, Maria Jimenez. “Vázquez betrayed the public’s trust, and she should have faced the full consequences of her actions. Instead, she’s being let off the hook by a former president who has his own history of corruption.”
Supporters of the pardon, on the other hand, argue that it is a necessary step towards healing and reconciliation. “Governor Vázquez has already paid a heavy price for her mistakes,” said political analyst, John Gonzalez. “This pardon allows her to move forward and potentially contribute to the ongoing recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.”
The decision has also raised questions about the broader implications of presidential pardons and their role in the US justice system. Critics argue that the pardon power can be abused to shield political allies from accountability, while proponents maintain that it is a necessary check on the judicial process.
Regardless of the debate, the pardon of Wanda Vázquez has undoubtedly shaken the political landscape in Puerto Rico and beyond. As the island continues to grapple with the aftermath of the corruption scandal, the decision will likely continue to be a subject of intense scrutiny and discussion.
