In a stunning revelation that exposes the dark underbelly of political influence peddling, Matt Argall’s audacious $30 million presidential pardon scheme has completely collapsed. This elaborate plot, targeting Bitcoin pioneer Roger Ver, reveals how grifters attempted to monetize access to the highest levels of government during the Trump administration.
The Presidential Pardon Scheme Unveiled
Matt Argall and crypto figure Brock Pierce conceived an ambitious presidential pardon scheme over dinner in Puerto Rico. Their plan involved persuading President Trump to grant clemency to Roger Ver. Subsequently, they aimed to collect enormous fees for this service. The structure was brutally straightforward:
- $10 million initial payment to initiate the process
- $20 million success fee upon pardon approval
- Direct wire transfers to a designated trustee
Key Players in the Failed Operation
Argall positioned himself as a well-connected dealmaker with significant White House access. However, evidence suggests these connections were largely exaggerated. Meanwhile, Brock Pierce provided cryptocurrency credibility to the presidential pardon scheme. Pierce, a former Tether co-founder, lent star power to the operation. Additionally, Robert Wasinger’s name was invoked, though he never formally participated.
White House Response and Denials
The White House immediately and categorically denied any involvement in this presidential pardon scheme. Spokesman Harrison Fields emphasized the seriousness of the pardon process. Furthermore, he warned about outside grifters overstating their access. The administration stressed that all clemency petitions follow formal channels through the pardon office.
Argall’s History of Questionable Dealings
Long before this presidential pardon scheme, Argall built a reputation as a relentless pitchman. He previously operated call centers selling questionable supplements. Associates describe him as someone who could “sell anything to anyone.” His email signature, “from the desk of Lord Argall,” perfectly captures his grandiose self-image.
The Scheme’s Collapse and Aftermath
By March, the presidential pardon scheme had completely unraveled. Roger Ver stopped responding to Argall’s messages. Ver’s lawyer, David Schoen, stated that no payments were ever intended. Moreover, he suggested the promoters exaggerated their connections. The White House reiterated its formal pardon process, undermining the scheme’s credibility.
Broader Implications for Political Access
This failed presidential pardon scheme highlights a disturbing trend in political monetization. Operatives increasingly attempt to profit from perceived government access. The involvement of cryptocurrency figures adds a modern twist to traditional influence peddling. Consequently, this case serves as a cautionary tale about ambition without substance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Matt Argall’s presidential pardon scheme?
Argall attempted to arrange a presidential pardon for Roger Ver in exchange for $30 million, with $10 million upfront and $20 million upon success.
Did the White House know about this scheme?
The White House categorically denied any knowledge or involvement, emphasizing that pardons follow formal processes through official channels.
Who was involved besides Matt Argall?
Brock Pierce participated as a crypto industry figure, while Robert Wasinger’s name was invoked though he wasn’t formally involved.
Was any money actually exchanged?
No payments were made, and Roger Ver’s lawyer stated they never intended to pay for a pardon.
What happened to the scheme?
It completely collapsed when Ver stopped communicating with Argall, and the White House denied any such process existed.
What does this reveal about political access monetization?
This case shows how grifters attempt to profit from perceived government connections, particularly involving high-profile cryptocurrency figures.
