The pardons granted by Trump are portrayed not merely as acts of mercy or legal rectifications but as bold declarations of resistance against the established order. This perspective highlights how these decisions were more about asserting Trump's stance and loyalty to his followers than about traditional notions of justice. Instead of reflecting a legal or moral obligation, they were infused with a personal and political agenda.

In Michael Wolff's book "Siege: Trump Under Fire," the author delves into the motivations behind Trump’s pardons, suggesting they served to challenge the system rather than provide relief to individuals. This framing indicates that Trump used these actions as a means to convey his defiance against institutions and critics, reinforcing his position as an outsider willing to confront normative expectations in the political landscape.