Would pardoning himself and others under investigation badly hurt Trump's image?

[Virginiá]

The idea here is that if he didn't commit any crimes, he does not need a pardon. Ditto for the people around him. If he were to issue pardons, it would indicate something did happen, whether it is or isn't related to the Russia scandal. Otherwise, as annoying as Mueller + the Congressional investigations are, there is ultimately no need for any pardons.

Surely that would have to make a difference when it comes down to reevaluating support for him.

[Virginiá]

Oops. I didn't realize the poll was different from the thread title. I still think my statement stands.  (And it's not like anyone reading my posts is going to mistake my position vis-a-vis the Outrageous Orangeness).

I wonder if EnglishPete was the 2nd No vote

[Virginiá]

Trump can pardon himself from federal prosecution but it does not exempt him from impeachment or state prosecution, and would cause an unprecedented constitutional crisis.

It could embolden Democratic state(s) (notably New York) to try and bring some sort of criminal action against him, and I'm somewhat unsure of exactly how much Republicans in Congress would tolerate from Trump at that point. I don't think anyone can say for sure, as Trump pardoning himself and others around him to avoid criminal liability would be completely uncharted territory. I think it is possible he could get tossed out as Republicans know a more stable/reliable Pence is waiting to take over.

[Virginiá]

Like this?

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/dc-attorney-general-challenging-trump-on-emoluments-clause-its-a-chaotic-unconstitutional-and-unlawful-situation/article/2629106

I'm not sure, and that's the thing, who knows what crimes Trump has committed over the course of his "career." Say what you want, but Trump does not strike me as the kind of person who cares about rules. I think if he felt he could get away with something, he'd do it. So with enough time, resources and manpower from someone like the New York or New Jersey AG (2018-on), it is possible he finds himself charged at the state level.