
In a move rife with political implications, President Joe Biden granted preemptive pardons to Dr. Anthony Fauci, Gen. Mark Milley, January 6 committee members, and several of his own family members during his last hours in office.
Key Insights
- Biden pardoned Fauci, Milley, January 6 committee members and staff, and multiple members of his family, citing the possibility of politically motivated prosecutions.
- The pardons aim to protect against alleged politically motivated charges.
- Biden said that pardons should not imply guilt or misconduct.
- The move drew significant Republican backlash questioning the pardons’ motives.
Controversial Last-Minute Pardons
Joe Biden utilized his final hours in office to extend pardons to Dr. Anthony Fauci and General Mark Milley. Biden indicated the pardons were intended to prevent retribution from Trump and Republicans and said that his pardons do not suggest actual guilt or wrongdoing
The pardons also covered Capitol police officers and House committee members who played crucial roles in the January 6 investigation. This decision exposed the tension lingering between Biden’s administration and Trump allies, who accused the committee of destroying evidence.
“These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions,” Biden said in a statement regarding his pardons of Fauci, Milley, and the January 6 committee members.
Biden also issued pardons for his brothers, his sister, and their spouses. He made this move less than half an hour before relinquishing power, saying his family members have faced “unrelenting attacks and threats” and that he doesn’t believe they will stop. “Even when individuals have done nothing wrong and will ultimately be exonerated, the mere fact of being investigated or prosecuted can irreparably damage their reputations and finances.”
Reactions and Criticisms
The pardons have sparked mixed reactions, with some recipients of the pardons welcoming Biden’s actions and others expressing concerns. Fauci and Milley both expressed their gratitude, with Milley noting, “I do not wish to spend whatever remaining time the Lord grants me fighting those who unjustly might seek retribution for perceived slights.”
However, some members of the January 6 committee were less supportive of the pardons due to the fact that they believe they’ve done nothing wrong. Former Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger said, “the second you take a pardon, it looks like you’re guilty of something.” Still, he and other members ultimately chose to accept the pardons.
Trump himself has also launched criticism at Biden for the pardons, calling them “disgraceful.” According to him, “Many are guilty of MAJOR CRIMES!”
Trump Administration’s Anticipated Response
Speculation persists about potential actions by the Trump administration given Biden’s pardons. While Trump’s nominee for FBI director, Kash Patel, hinted at possible investigations, it remains unclear if any prosecutions will occur. What is certain is the controversy and discord surrounding these high-profile pardons spotlight the stark divide in American politics today.
As the nation awaits possible developments from the Trump administration, the lingering implications of Biden’s strategic clemency will likely remain a contentious issue. With Republicans urging Trump to disregard the pardons, the political climate shows little sign of cooling.
Sources
- Trump slams Biden for pardoning Fauci, Milley and Jan. 6 committee staffers in final hours of presidency: ‘Disgraceful’
- Biden pardons Fauci, Milley and members of Jan. 6 panel
- Biden preemptively pardons family members and Trump foes including Fauci, Milley and Jan. 6 committee