Trump Denies Matt Gaetz Asked for Pre-Emptive Pardon The former president has finally spoken out in defense of the embattled Republican representativeLindsey Ellefson | April 7, 2021 @ 9:16 AM Photo: Getty Images Former president Donald Trump spoke out in defense of Rep. Matt Gaetz Wednesday, denying that the embattled Republican congressman sought a pardon from him during the final days of the Trump administration. “Congressman Matt Gaetz has never asked me for a pardon. It must also be remembered that he has totally denied the accusations against him,” said a statement from Trump. Gaetz has long been a vocal supporter of the reality star-turned-president.