Executive pardons are a hot topic. President Joe Biden pardoned his family from any future prosecutions just minutes before leaving office. And Donald Trump issued a blanket pardon for those involved in the J-6 riot. Kentucky State Senator Chris McDaniel wants to rein in the pardon power from abuse. His bill (SB 26) would prevent governors from issuing pardons two months prior to an election and until a new term begins. McDaniels bill stems from Governor Matt Bevin’s controversial pardons of hundreds of people after he lost the election to Governor Andy Beshear in 2019. McDaniel’s bill aims to bring greater transparency and accountability to governors. If the legislature passes the bill, it will be on the ballot in 2026.