• President Trump issued pardons including one for rapper NBA YoungBoy.
• NBA YoungBoy expressed gratitude and hopes for a fresh start.
• The pardons included other prominent figures, showcasing Trump's clemency actions.

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump issued a series of pardons, most notably one for the rapper Kentrell DeSean Gaulden, known as NBA YoungBoy, confirming this through multiple sources, including Los Angeles Times and India Times. The rapper had been facing nearly two years in prison on gun-related charges prior to the pardon.

NBA YoungBoy, whose stage name stands for "Never Broke Again," reacted positively to the news, expressing his gratitude on Instagram. “This moment means a lot,” he stated, noting that the pardon "opens the door to a future I've worked hard for and I am fully prepared to step into this,” according to Los Angeles Times and Newsweek.

Trump’s pardons extended to various other individuals, including former politicians and a labor union leader, reflecting his commitment to rewarding supporters and allies. Among those pardoned were personal acquaintances such as former congressman Michael Grimm and labor leader James Callahan. The president's actions were confirmed by White House officials, as reported by India Times and Los Angeles Times.

As part of the pardon announcement, Alice Marie Johnson, known for her previously commuted life sentence by Trump, plays a pivotal role in his pardon strategy, highlighting the influence of celebrity relationships in political decisions. She has been recognized by NBA YoungBoy in light of his pardon, emphasizing her efforts in advocating for second chances, reported by both Newsweek and Los Angeles Times.