Are you still a felon if you receive a presidential pardon?

YES. A presidential pardon excuses the punishments of a felony, but the crime isn't automatically overturned or erased from one's record. Adam Johnson, photographed with Nancy Pelosi's lectern during the Jan. 6 Capitol riots, announced he's running for office in Manatee County. He, along with nearly 1,600 others, were pardoned by President Trump in 2025. While his punishments were forgiven and civil rights were restored –– giving him the right to hold public office –– his conviction as a felon isn't erased.

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