Teresa and Gia Giudice visited the White House this past Friday to ask President Trump for a pardon for Joe Giudice. The star of "Real Housewives of New Jersey" and her eldest daughter attended a Columbus Day celebration hosted by the President and First Lady. They used this high-profile gathering to push for the return of Teresa's ex-husband, who was deported to Italy in 2019.
Fraud led to Joe's 41-month federal prison term, marking a prolonged struggle for the family. $5 million in loans were secured using forged documents, while $1 million in income remained concealed from the IRS. Teresa also served 11 months but remained in the United States as a citizen. Joe was deported to Italy after his release, leaving the family apart for years.
Teresa has not stopped fighting for her ex-husband despite their divorce. She spoke openly about her desire to see him back in the country. "Even though Joe and I are not together, I would love for him to come back to America," Teresa said, according to the Daily Wire. She believes he belongs here because he has lived in the US since he was one year old.
Teresa added that the separation has caused deep pain for their four daughters. Gia, the eldest, posted a video in July 2025 asking the President to intervene. She described their family life as being in "emotional limbo."
Gia cited the recent pardons of reality stars Todd and Julie Chrisley as a reason for her hope. The Chrisleys were convicted of fraud and tax evasion but received clemency from the President. Gia believes her father deserves a similar chance to return home to his family.
Deputy Assistant to the President Lynne Patton addressed the pardon request during the visit. She posted photos of the women outside the Oval Office on Instagram. Patton stated the Giudices attended "at the invitation of the President & First Lady in honor of Columbus Day & Italian-American heritage", according to the New York Post.
Patton was clear that she does not have the power to grant a pardon herself. "I am not in charge of pardons. Nor do I decide who receives them." She explained that the final decision rests solely with the President based on recommendations from his team. However, she did express support for the idea of forgiveness.
Patton stated that she holds a profound belief in second chances. The first lady's office declined to comment on the specific request. The family continues to wait for a decision from the White House on whether Joe will be allowed to return.