[PJBankard]

By pardoning her, she would be admitting to be guilty, and it would be notated in her record that she pleaded guilty to a felony. The pardon just prevents sentencing and restores most rights. However, I don’t think that the ability to hold public office is restored if pardoned.

[PJBankard]

From www.justice.gov

10. Effects of a Pardon

While a presidential pardon will restore various rights lost as a result of the pardoned offense and should lessen to some extent the stigma arising from a conviction, it will not erase or expunge the record of your conviction. Therefore, even if you are granted a pardon, you must still disclose your conviction on any form where such information is required, although you may also disclose the fact that you received a pardon. In addition, most civil disabilities attendant upon a federal felony conviction, such as loss of the right to vote and hold state public office, are imposed by state rather than federal law, and also may be removed by state action. Because the federal pardon process is exacting and may be more time-consuming than analogous state procedures, you may wish to consult with the appropriate authorities in the state of your residence regarding the procedures for restoring your state civil rights.

[Baynative]

I didn't know that about pardons and pleas. But, that again gets into the timing issue that intrigued me when thinking about what Obama will do between Nov and Jan if nothing is going on republicans have won the election.

Of course if she wins it's all a point.