Governor Newsom Pardons Ex-San Quentin Podcaster
California Governor Gavin Newsom granted a pardon to Earlonne Woods, co-host of the "Ear Hustle" podcast, which he began while incarcerated at San Quentin State Prison. Woods, who was a Pulitzer Prize finalist, received the pardon in recognition of his transformative work. The podcast, which has been downloaded 80 million times, offers insights into prison life. Woods, who was previously sentenced for burglary, kidnapping, and attempted robbery, had his sentence commuted by former Governor Jerry Brown in 2018. Newsom's pardon required approval from the state Supreme Court due to Woods' multiple felony convictions.