Alice Marie Johnson Appointed as Trump’s Pardon Czar After Receiving Clemency

Alice Marie Johnson, a former Alabama inmate whose life sentence was commuted by President Donald Trump in 2018, has been named the country’s new "Pardon Czar."

Johnson, 63, was serving a life sentence at Aliceville Federal Correctional Institution in Alabama for nonviolent drug offenses before her release. Her case gained national attention when reality star Kim Kardashian advocated for her clemency, ultimately leading to Trump granting her freedom.

Since her release, Johnson has been an active voice in criminal justice reform, appearing in Trump campaign ads aimed at Black voters and pushing for second chances for those convicted of nonviolent crimes. Now, she will advise Trump on potential clemency cases, according to a report from USA Today.

Johnson’s Reaction to Her New Role

Expressing gratitude for the appointment, Johnson shared her excitement on Facebook.

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as Pardon Czar and for the trust placed in me to help those impacted by our criminal justice system," she wrote.

"This role is a chance to offer second chances and restore hope to individuals who have paid their debt to society."

Her Legal Battle and Clemency

Johnson was arrested in 1993, along with 15 others, on drug conspiracy and money laundering charges. According to a Mic report in 2013, she claimed she was merely a go-between and never engaged in drug deals herself. However, ten of her co-defendants testified against her in exchange for reduced sentences.

While those who testified received sentences ranging from probation to a maximum of 10 years, Johnson was sentenced to life in prison without parole, plus an additional 25 years. It was her first conviction.

Her case became a symbol of excessive sentencing in nonviolent drug offenses, eventually drawing support from criminal justice advocates and celebrities. Kardashian took the matter to Trump, leading to Johnson’s clemency in 2018.

A Commitment to Criminal Justice Reform

Johnson has since dedicated herself to helping others in similar situations. She remains an advocate for criminal justice reform and continues to push for clemency opportunities for nonviolent offenders.

"I am thankful for the support of my family and all those who have worked tirelessly to bring about this moment," Johnson stated.

"I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those seeking a fresh start. All glory to God!"

Her new role as Pardon Czar gives her the platform to influence future clemency decisions, ensuring more individuals receive the second chances they deserve.