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Biden's Pre-Emptive Pardons: A Controversial Final Act


The White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons


In the final hours of his presidency, Joe Biden issued pre-emptive pardons to several individuals, including family members and prominent public figures, sparking widespread debate. Here's what you need to know.


Who Was Pardoned?


  • Family Members: Biden pardoned his brothers James, Francis, and Frank Biden, along with his sister Valerie Biden Owens, sister-in-law Sara Jones Biden, and brother-in-law John Owens.

  • Hunter Biden: Previously pardoned by Biden, Hunter Biden faced legal troubles, but this decision protected him from further consequences.

  • Dr. Anthony Fauci: The former COVID-19 response chief received a pardon to shield him from "politically motivated prosecutions."

  • Mark Milley: The ex-chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who had been critical of former President Donald Trump, also received a pardon.

  • Leonard Peltier: Serving a life sentence for the 1975 murder of two FBI agents, Peltier’s sentence was commuted to house arrest.


Why the Pardons?


Biden emphasized that the pardons were not an admission of guilt but a protective measure against potential politically charged investigations. He cited "unrelenting attacks" on his family and allies as the rationale behind his decision.


"These attacks are motivated solely by a desire to hurt me," Biden stated.


Political Reactions


  • Supporters: Many allies, including Dr. Fauci and Gen. Milley, expressed gratitude, highlighting the distress caused by the threat of prosecution.

  • Critics: Incoming Trump officials and Republican leaders called the pardons an attack on justice. Taylor Budowich, a Trump spokesperson, labeled the move as an "unreversible erosion of American norms."

  • Democratic Concerns: Even some Democrats raised alarms, fearing the pardons set a dangerous precedent.


Focus on January 6 Investigations


Biden's pardons extended to members of the House Select Committee investigating the Capitol riot, their staff, and officers who testified. This move shielded them from legal consequences but left them open to congressional inquiries under a Republican-controlled House.


Trump’s Reaction and Countermeasures


Donald Trump criticized Biden’s actions and hinted at pardons for individuals convicted in connection to the January 6 riot. On the campaign trail, Trump continued his rhetoric against "enemies from within" while promising not to misuse the Department of Justice for political retribution.


Broader Implications


The pardons have reignited debates about the use of presidential clemency powers and their potential for political misuse. While Biden framed his actions as necessary, critics argue it sets a troubling precedent for future administrations.


What’s Next?


As Trump prepares to assume the presidency, all eyes are on his next moves, including potential pardons and investigations targeting Biden’s allies. The political landscape remains polarized, with accountability and justice at the forefront of public discourse. This story will continue to evolve as the implications of these unprecedented pardons unfold. Stay tuned.


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