DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

TOP STORIES

Latest News

Biden Weighs Preemptive Pardons for Cheney, Fauci, Others

 January 9, 2025

President Joe Biden is carefully reviewing the possibility of issuing preemptive pardons to allies he believes may face investigations under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

The potential for these pardons, particularly for high-profile figures like Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci, has ignited a nationwide debate over their intent and potential repercussions, and Biden's contemplation of the clemency is unprecedented, revealing what some say are the escalating political tensions surrounding Trump's return to the presidency, as Breitbart reports.

A preemptive pardon, while not necessarily stamping guilt on its recipients, suggests an acknowledgment of the potential legal challenges they might face.

Nevertheless, some argue that such pardons could shield Biden's associates from possible retaliatory actions by Trump. The president has confirmed that his administration is examining pardons for individuals whom Trump may intend to target, highlighting the precarious political landscape as power transitions.

Potential Pardon Considerations Create Controversy

Developments followed a meeting in the Oval Office held a week after the November election, during which Biden met Trump to discuss the latter's potential investigations into his critics.

During this meeting, Biden sought to express his view that pursuing scores was not beneficial for Trump. He conveyed that doing so would be counterintuitive and detrimental to Trump's own interests.

Although Trump listened, his response was noncommittal. He neither outright rejected Biden's assertions nor openly committed to his old pursuit. Trump's ambiguous stance leaves room for speculation about his intentions once in office.

White House advisors, alongside Biden's legal team, are in the process of evaluating the preemptive pardon strategy. This includes extensive discussions between Biden and his senior aides regarding its feasibility and implications, underscoring the complex legal considerations involved.

Legal Teams, Aides Deliberate Pardons

Biden is under considerable pressure from Democratic allies and media circles to consider the pardons for a significant number of individuals within his orbit. Among those on the potential pardon list are notable names, including former Rep. Liz Cheney, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, and former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, aside from Fauci.

Biden's proposal has evoked varied responses from the political spectrum, with some perceiving it as a protective measure amid a volatile political environment.

Others suggest a more cynical view, interpreting the move as a tactic to preemptively neutralize challenges to his administration’s allies, signaling profound political warfare.

Addressing the media, Biden remarked on his efforts to convey to Trump that revisiting disputes would not serve his interests. Illustrating this, he shared that Trump "didn’t say, ‘No, I’m going to …’" suggesting a lack of explicit opposition or affirmation from the President-elect.

Biden Facing Political and Legal Pressure

Trump, in an interview with NBC News, responded to the unfolding situation by affirming that Biden is free to issue pardons if desired. He seemed to hint that perhaps it was a prudent course for Biden to consider, adding an additional layer to the already intricate discourse.

The complexity surrounding the potential pardons extends beyond mere political maneuvering; it involves navigating the intricate relationship between the executive privileges of issuing pardons and legal responsibilities. Hence, Biden’s advisors are striking a cautious balance, aware of the potential precedent such actions could set.

Biden’s contemplation of such pardons, especially for figures as polarizing as Cheney and Fauci, indicates a nuanced understanding of the shifting political alliances and adversaries. Cheney, a former Republican congresswoman, and Fauci, the nation’s well-known infectious disease expert, have both been open critics of Trump’s policies, which Biden thinks may amplify their risk of being targeted under his administration.

Strategic Moves Amid Political Tensions

Anticipating the implications, Biden’s administration may view the preemptive pardons not just as protective measures, but as strategic maneuvers within a broader political framework. Legal analysts weigh in on the situation, highlighting how such pardons could prevent prospective trials, stymie investigations, or even indirectly influence future political dynamics.

The discourse surrounding pardons at such a critical juncture of political transition underscores the fragile balance of power. As Biden navigates this charged atmosphere, his approach to potential pardons will likely define key aspects of the political terrain in the months ahead.

Nonetheless, the intention behind preemptive pardons and their long-term impact remains contentious. Ultimately, any decision will carry substantial weight not only for those involved but also for the broader implications on justice and executive power dynamics in the U.S. political landscape.