Trump Defends Pardon of Binance Founder CZ, Denies Personal Ties

In a recent interview with CBS News, President Donald Trump reiterated that he does not personally know Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, despite granting him a presidential pardon in October. The pardon came nearly a year after Zhao pleaded guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act and served a four-month prison sentence.

Trump described Zhao as a “victim of weaponization by government,” claiming the former Binance CEO had been treated “really badly by the Biden administration.” He said he was informed that Zhao “was set up,” and that his decision to issue the pardon was aimed at ensuring the U.S. remained competitive in the cryptocurrency sector.

“I don’t know the man at all. I don’t think I ever met him,” Trump told CBS anchor Norah O’Donnell. “Maybe I did, or somebody shook my hand or something. But I don’t think I ever met him. I was told he was a victim, just like I was and like many others.”

Trump dismissed questions regarding potential conflicts of interest, emphasizing that his actions were focused on maintaining U.S. leadership in digital assets. “My sons are into it. I’m glad they are,” he said. “They’re running a business; they’re not in government.”

Critics, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, have called the pardon an example of “pay for play,” citing Zhao’s alleged financial ties to Trump-affiliated ventures. However, Zhao’s attorney told the New York Post that Warren’s comments were defamatory.

The pardon has reignited debates about political influence and crypto regulation, with Trump positioning himself as a defender of innovation in the blockchain industry. His latest remarks further signal that cryptocurrency policy could become a key talking point in the upcoming election cycle, reflecting growing political attention to digital finance and global competitiveness.