Lil Wayne is thanking former President Donald Trump for pardoning him hours before exiting the White House. The rapper, whose real name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., was among 73 people to be pardoned on Wednesday. Taking to social media on Thursday, Lil Wayne expressed his gratitude to Trump and his attorney, Bradford Cohen.
"I want to thank President Trump for recognizing that I have so much more to give to my family, my art, and my community," he tweeted. "I also want to thank @bradfordcohen for working so diligently to secure another chance for me. Love! - Dwayne Michael Carter Jr."
Lil Wayne was charged on Nov. 17 for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon and was facing significant time in jail before his pardoning.
"Mr. Carter pled guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, owing to a conviction over 10 years ago," the White House said, according to Fox News. "Deion Sanders, who ... wrote in support of this pardon, calls Mr. Wayne 'a provider for his family, a friend to many, a man of faith, a natural giver to the less fortunate, a waymaker, [and] a game changer.'"
Cohen applauded Trump for his actions.
"I think President Trump and his administration have been tireless advocates on behalf of the African American community," he told Fox News. Rapper Kodak Black, another one of Cohen's clients, received a commutation of his sentence also relating to a weapons charge.
"These pardons are a perfect example of this administration following up on its reforms and commitments," Cohen continued. "I thank President Trump for his advocacy towards justice reform. I am glad for both my clients."