November 28, 2025
Global Exchange is outraged over Donald Trump’s unprecedented statement today, which brazenly interferes in the Honduran election. In addition to endorsing National Party candidate Tito Asfura, he is now pledging a full pardon for former President Juan Orlando Hernández, who is currently serving a 45-year sentence in a U.S. federal prison for large-scale drug trafficking, which he enabled by operating a narco-state. Hernández used the military and police to protect drug cartels and traffic large quantities of narcotics, protected his associates from prosecution, stole public funds, repressed protesters, and oversaw some of the worst human rights abuses in modern Honduran history. Hernández’s government fueled mass migration, deepened corruption, and left entire communities living under fear and violence.
Trump’s announcement legitimizes Hernández’s brutal legacy and attempts to recast Hernández as a victim of political persecution. It also links Hernández’s pardon to the outcome of Sunday’s election. Trump has invoked Cold War style fear tactics and told Hondurans that the United States would only support their country if far-right National Party candidate Tito Asfura wins. Trump went further by threatening to withhold resources if Hondurans choose a different leader.
This is a dangerous assault on democracy and a blatant effort to influence Sunday’s election. As international election observers in Honduras, we condemn this attempt to coerce voters and predetermine outcomes. Honduras, not Washington, must decide its future, free from corruption, intimidation, and imperialism.