As President Joe Biden prepares to conclude his term, the political arena buzzes with discussions on potential high-profile pardons.

Amid escalating concerns about retaliatory actions from the incoming administration, Biden is faced with decisions on several controversial pardons, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Biden, whose administration will end on Jan. 20, 2025, has previously exercised his pardon powers. Notably, he has pardoned individuals convicted of federal marijuana offenses as well as gay veterans.

Among the potential candidates for pardon is Hunter Biden, the president's son, who has been convicted on gun-related charges and pleaded guilty to tax offenses.

However, White House officials have clarified more than once that Biden does not plan to pardon his son.

This decision comes amid broader concerns that the upcoming Trump administration might pursue legal actions against former Biden administration officials.

Debates Over Preemptive Pardons

Special counsel Jack Smith, who recently dropped federal cases against Trump, is also mentioned in discussions about potential pardons.

These cases involved allegations of election interference and mishandling of classified documents.

Figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci, prosecutors Letitia James and Alvin Bragg, and Judge Juan Merchan have also been named as potential preemptive pardon candidates.

They have been accused by some Republicans of politicizing legal processes against Trump and may harbor fears of future prosecution.

Rep.  Anna Paulina Luna has criticized these officials, claiming they used their positions to unfairly target former President Trump and ought to face legal consequences of their own.

Implications of Presidential Pardons

Democrat Sen. Ed Markey expressed a different perspective, suggesting that preemptive pardons could be necessary to protect the integrity of the justice system from potential abuses by the incoming administration.

On the other hand, calls for mass pardons to address issues of mass incarceration have been voiced by progressive members of the Democratic Party, highlighting the broader implications of Biden's pardon powers.

Democrat Rep. Jim Clyburn emphasized the importance of addressing victimless crimes, which have led to extensive sentences for many individuals.

Historical Precedents and Future Expectations

Furthermore, a potential pardon of Donald Trump in any legal cases that may remain open at the time of his inauguration has long been discussed as a move that could unify the nation.

Marc Thiessen and Danielle Pletka of the Washington Post argue that such an act could be seen as a significant gesture of reconciliation.

Julian Assange, another controversial figure, has reportedly been involved in plea discussions under the Espionage Act. His situation highlights the global dimensions of the pardon debate.

As the deadline for these decisions nears, the legacy of Biden's presidency could very well be shaped by these acts of clemency, which range from the personal to the politically charged.