

Compassion and Clemency for Joe Exotic
The Issue
Joseph A. Maldonado, known around the world as Joe Exotic, has spent years behind bars while supporters across the globe continue to speak out for his freedom. Many believe Joe was portrayed to the public through television, including the hit series Tiger King, in a way that focused on controversy and conflict rather than the compassion he showed toward the animals he dedicated his life to caring for. Supporters say Joe’s life mission was loving and protecting exotic animals, often rescuing creatures that had nowhere else to go. While his personality and lifestyle made him an unforgettable public figure, many believe the full story of his love for his animals and the complexity of his case was overshadowed by entertainment-driven storytelling. Joe and all of us are now asking for compassion, fairness, and a second chance. We’re proposing what could be a historic act of clemency cooperation. He and all of us respectfully ask that Jared Polis, Governor of Colorado, consider commuting the sentence of Tina Peters to time served. In exchange, we’re requesting that President Donald Trump commute or pardon Joe’s federal sentence to time served. This compassionate and unprecedented action would not only resolve two highly publicized legal cases but would also send a powerful message about mercy, fairness, and the willingness to find solutions that unite rather than divide. Joe has millions of supporters who continue to stand behind him and we hope he will be given the opportunity to rebuild his life, reunite with his loved ones, and continue advocating for the animals he has always loved. This petition asks Governor Polis to consider this extraordinary request and help create a moment of compassion that many believe could become historic. By signing this petition, supporters are asking for mercy, understanding, and a chance for Joe Exotic to return home.

Kaela RheaPetition Starter
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The Issue
Joseph A. Maldonado, known around the world as Joe Exotic, has spent years behind bars while supporters across the globe continue to speak out for his freedom. Many believe Joe was portrayed to the public through television, including the hit series Tiger King, in a way that focused on controversy and conflict rather than the compassion he showed toward the animals he dedicated his life to caring for. Supporters say Joe’s life mission was loving and protecting exotic animals, often rescuing creatures that had nowhere else to go. While his personality and lifestyle made him an unforgettable public figure, many believe the full story of his love for his animals and the complexity of his case was overshadowed by entertainment-driven storytelling. Joe and all of us are now asking for compassion, fairness, and a second chance. We’re proposing what could be a historic act of clemency cooperation. He and all of us respectfully ask that Jared Polis, Governor of Colorado, consider commuting the sentence of Tina Peters to time served. In exchange, we’re requesting that President Donald Trump commute or pardon Joe’s federal sentence to time served. This compassionate and unprecedented action would not only resolve two highly publicized legal cases but would also send a powerful message about mercy, fairness, and the willingness to find solutions that unite rather than divide. Joe has millions of supporters who continue to stand behind him and we hope he will be given the opportunity to rebuild his life, reunite with his loved ones, and continue advocating for the animals he has always loved. This petition asks Governor Polis to consider this extraordinary request and help create a moment of compassion that many believe could become historic. By signing this petition, supporters are asking for mercy, understanding, and a chance for Joe Exotic to return home.

Kaela RheaPetition Starter
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Petition created on February 13, 2026

