Changpeng Zhao (CZ) previously denied reports by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that he was pursuing a pardon or negotiating with the Trump administration before confirming the application

Quotes that support claims

The WSJ reported last March that Zhao was pushing the Trump administration for a pardon. However, Zhao claimed the outlet "got the facts wrong," adding, "No felon would mind a pardon."

At the time, Zhao denied the Wall Street Journal’s claims that he was discussing a business deal of any kind, but did not rule out the idea of a pardon.