Trevor Milton, the controversial founder of the now-bankrupt electric truck company Nikola, is pushing back against accusations that his recent presidential pardon was influenced by political donations. In an exclusive interview with 12News, Milton denied that his family’s nearly $2 million contribution to former President Donald Trump’s campaign played any role in securing clemency. Instead, he portrayed himself as a target of political persecution, claiming the Biden administration unfairly prosecuted him.
Legal Woes Erased, but Questions Remain
Milton, who resides in Ahwatukee, was convicted in 2022 on securities fraud and wire fraud charges after being accused of misleading investors about Nikola’s technological advancements. He was sentenced to four years in prison but remained free on bail while appealing his conviction. Last week, Trump pardoned him, effectively overturning his sentence.
The timing of the pardon, following his family’s political donations, sparked controversy. However, Milton firmly denied any link between the two. “I wouldn’t even know how to do that,” he stated. “It would be illegal.”
He also dismissed speculation that Pamela Bondi, a former Trump-appointed attorney general and the sister of one of his lawyers, had any involvement in securing his pardon.
Claims of Political Persecution
Throughout the interview, Milton maintained that his prosecution was politically motivated. He asserted that Trump’s pardon affirmed his innocence, stating, “The government was wrong. They never should have done this.”
Milton founded Nikola in 2015, envisioning it as a leader in electric and hydrogen-powered truck manufacturing. The company, headquartered in Phoenix, received strong backing from former Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, who promoted it as a groundbreaking innovation in sustainable transportation.
Fraud Conviction and Investor Losses
Milton’s legal troubles began when federal prosecutors accused him of deceiving investors about Nikola’s capabilities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York alleged that Milton exaggerated nearly every aspect of Nikola’s development, using social media and public appearances to spread misleading claims. Prosecutors said these deceptions led to significant financial losses, with some investors losing their life savings.
In October 2022, a New York jury found Milton guilty of securities fraud and wire fraud. He was sentenced in 2023 to four years in prison. However, Trump’s pardon could exempt him from paying hundreds of millions of dollars in restitution to investors.
While acknowledging the financial devastation suffered by some, Milton refused to accept responsibility. “It’s awful,” he admitted. “Imagine dedicating your whole life to something, only to have it taken away. That’s the worst feeling. But the problem is, prosecutors lied, and you can’t just take their word for it.”
He likened the stock market to gambling, adding, “I’ve lost money on stocks too. It’s always a risk. It’s a legal way to gamble in America, and people accept that risk.”
No Plans to Repay Investors
Despite cashing in on Nikola’s rise, Milton made it clear he has no intention of compensating investors who lost money. He confirmed that he sold more than $300 million in company shares in 2021 but stated he does not feel obligated to return any funds.
However, he expressed a willingness to assist affected investors in the future. “I’m not heartless,” he claimed. “If anything, I probably feel for these people more than most.”
Looking Ahead: Documentary and Business Ventures
Milton believes his side of the story has yet to be fully told. He revealed that a documentary about his journey is set to be released on YouTube this spring, which he hopes will clear his name. Additionally, he hinted at a potential bid for Nikola’s assets after the company filed for bankruptcy protection in February.
His statements have reignited public debates over presidential pardons and the influence of political donations in securing clemency. Whether Milton’s claims of innocence will be accepted remains to be seen.
