Trump pardons Alaska diesel mechanics at rally, highlights energy projects
President Donald Trump signed pardons for two Alaska diesel mechanics during a rally in Wasilla. The men had pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act for removing emissions controls on diesel vehicles. Trump also announced federal permits for an 800-mile natural gas pipeline and promoted energy investments in Alaska.
At a Wasilla rally, Trump brought Zachary Czubak and Patrick Fleming onstage and signed pardons. The two Anchorage shop co-owners had pleaded guilty in 2022 to conspiring to violate the Clean Air Act. Prosecutors said their business, Arm Rippin Toys, removed emissions equipment and tampered with monitoring devices on at least 37 diesel vehicles from July 2019 to September 2020, collecting about $100,000.
Trump also said an 800-mile natural gas pipeline had received all federal permits, telling the crowd work could begin. He referenced an earlier pardon for Mackenzie “Mac” Spurlock, a Wasilla diesel shop owner, and called the earlier federal cases unjust.
The pardons could reassure some diesel repair businesses and right-to-repair supporters who see enforcement as overreach, while possibly worrying environmental and public-health advocates focused on emissions controls. Alaska’s pipeline permitting news may affect project developers, workers, and local economies if construction proceeds, though legal or logistical hurdles could still shape results. The rally may also intensify national debate over clemency and environmental enforcement.