Alina Habba, former Donald Trump lawyer, landed a lucrative deal worth over $50 million with Concord Partners, a company founded by Venezuelan billionaire Julio Herrera Velutini's daughter, Isabela Herrera. This arrangement has sparked controversy due to Trump's pardon of Herrera Velutini just weeks after Habba began working for the company.

According to The New York Times, Habba agreed to become general counsel of Concord Partners in January 2026, reportedly earning $10 million annually for four years plus bonuses. Her hiring comes amidst allegations that Trump's pardon was influenced by her ties to Concord Partners. Habba has denied involvement in obtaining the pardon, stating that she "played no role" in the decision-making process.

Isabela Herrera created Concord Partners in October 2025, and Habba finalized the agreement within days while serving as acting U.S. attorney for New Jersey. Prior to this, Herrera Velutini faced felony charges related to an alleged scheme involving Puerto Rico's governor. In 2025, he pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor campaign finance violation.

Habba officially joined Concord Partners on January 1, 2026, and Trump granted Herrera Velutini a full pardon on January 15. Five days later, Trump issued an amended clemency order covering the misdemeanor offense. It remains unclear whether Habba's employment with Concord Partners had any bearing on the pardon.

Timeline of Key Events

* October 2025: Isabela Herrera creates Concord Partners. * January 1, 2026: Habba officially joins Concord Partners. * January 15, 2026: Trump grants Herrera Velutini a full pardon. * January 20, 2026: Trump issues an amended clemency order covering the misdemeanor offense.

Habba's contract and Herrera Velutini's pardon have drawn scrutiny, but it is essential to note that there is no concrete evidence establishing a direct link between the two events. While some may argue that the timing raises suspicions, others claim that these are separate incidents unrelated to each other.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Alina Habba involved in securing President Trump's pardon for Julio Herrera Velutini?

Habba denies helping secure the pardon, stating that she played no role in the decision-making process.

Did Alina Habba discuss clemency with anyone from the White House or Justice Department?

The Justice Department told The New York Times that Habba did not discuss clemency with anyone, and a White House official also denied any connection between Habba and the pardon.

What is the significance of Isabela Herrera donating $3.5 million to a Trump-aligned super PAC before Habba's deal with Concord Partners?

This donation may be seen as a potential influence on Trump's decision to grant a pardon to Herrera Velutini, but its relevance to Habba's employment with Concord Partners is still uncertain.

Does the lack of evidence establish a clear link between Alina Habba's employment and the pardon?

While the timing of Habba's contract and Herrera Velutini's pardon has raised questions, it remains essential to acknowledge that there is currently no concrete evidence supporting a direct connection between the two events.