President Trump has answered his former advisor's plea to avoid prison – as Trump commuted Roger Stone's 40-month sentence just days before the 67-year-old was due to start his time. Stone was convicted in a jury trial for lying to Congress and witness tampering.
The news isn’t a total shock, of course. Trump has been outspoken about his friend's prosecution, calling it a “witch hunt.” He had also been hinting he would take such action. But apparently, the President ‘acted alone’ – as in, Attorney General William Barr and the Justice Department had nothing to do with the decision.
In fact, NBC News reports Barr strenuously recommended against it. Word is that Barr and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows strongly advised against it, concerned over political backlash.
Source: White House