University of Mary Washington political professor Stephen Farnsworth says a pardon before legal action is concluded sets a dangerous precedent. "It serves political purposes, to be sure, for the governor to engage in Loudoun at every opportunity. I don't know that it particularly wins him votes in Loudoun, but it certainly does energize the Republican base in other parts of the commonwealth or the country," Farnsworth said.
Youngkin defends decision to pardon Loudoun Co. father (NBC News Washington)