Yes indeed. I can't imagine what bad advice Trump was given, what stupid ideas he may have held, or possibly how Trump was threatened on this.
Assange, even if he said or did nothing in his freedom, would be a wedge to deflect the deep-state and also a badge of honor to Trump now facing the very similar lawfare.
It really was a huge mistake
Carlson noted Tuesday that Senate Majority Leader McConnell “sent word over to the White House: ‘If you pardon Julian Assange, we are much more likely to convict you in an impeachment trial. ‘”Jan 21, 2021
Trump was threatened with removal from office if he pardoned Assange.