Trump defends Gaetz over allegations, says GOP rep never asked him for preemptive pardon

Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday issued a statement in defense of Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz, a political ally who is facing a federal investigation over allegations of sexual misconduct.

The statement came after The New York Times reported -- and a source told Fox News -- that Gaetz once asked Trump White House aides for a preemptive pardon at the end of his term.

But in a statement Wednesday, Trump said Gaetz never asked him directly: "Congressman Matt Gaetz has never asked me for a pardon," Trump said. "It must also be remembered that he has totally denied the accusations against him."