Over 55% of Hondurans Reject Trump's Pardon for Ex-President Hernández: Poll

A recent poll reveals a divided Honduran public regarding the presidential pardon granted to former President Juan Orlando Hernández by former U.S. President Donald Trump. According to a survey conducted by the Equipo de Reflexión, Investigación y Comunicación (ERIC-SJ), 55.3% of Hondurans reject the pardon, while 42.4% support Trump's decision. The findings highlight significant public disagreement over the controversial measure.

“

55.3% of Hondurans reject the pardon granted by U.S. President Donald Trump to former president Juan Orlando Hernández.

The survey also explored Hondurans' perceptions of the pardon's potential impact. A substantial portion, 34.6%, believes the pardon will have no consequences for Honduras. However, others expressed concern: 26.7% think it will damage the country's international image, 13.1% view it as setting a bad precedent, and 11% interpret it as a potential signal of the return of drug-related state influence.

“

42.4% of Hondurans support Trump's decision.

Hernández, 57, was extradited to the United States in April 2022 and subsequently convicted in March 2024 on charges related to drug trafficking and arms smuggling, receiving a 45-year prison sentence. The presidential pardon, issued by Trump on December 1, 2025, allowed for Hernández's release from prison and his return to Honduras on the preceding Sunday. Despite the U.S. conviction and pardon, Hernández faces ongoing legal proceedings in Honduras related to fraud and money laundering in the 'Pandora II' case.

“

34.6% of respondents consider that the pardon will not have consequences for Honduras; 26.7% believe it will deteriorate the international image of the country; 13.1% classify it as a bad example and 11% interpret it as a possible return of the narco-state.

The poll, which surveyed 1,559 individuals over 18 across 16 of Honduras' 18 departments between May 12 and May 23, also indicated public sentiment towards Hernández potentially seeking the presidency again. A strong majority, 79.1%, oppose such a move, with only 20.3% supporting it. Hernández is scheduled for an initial hearing in the Pandora II case on August 3, following the provisional suspension of his arrest warrant and Interpol red alert to allow his voluntary appearance.

“

52.2% expressed disagreement with Hernández's return to the country, while 46.2% expressed agreement.