Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger has declined a proposed preemptive pardon from President Joe Biden, maintaining he does not fear possible repercussions from President-elect Donald Trump for his involvement in the House an. 6 investigation.

Kinzinger sees potential probes led by Trump's allies as strategies to financially burden dissenters instead of convicting them, as The Hill reports.

The former lawmaker and fellow former Rep. Liz Cheney were the only GOP members on the House panel that investigated the Jan. 6 Capitol breach.

Their decision to join the investigative team drew criticism from Trump and his allies, with Kinzinger becoming a focal point of their dissatisfaction. His stance recently became more apparent as he spoke about preemptive pardons on CNN, underscoring his intent to face any future legal challenges head-on.

Kinzinger's Criticism of Trump's Strategy

During his CNN appearance on Monday, Kinzinger outlined his reasoning against accepting a pardon from Biden. He posited that Trump and his supporters might leverage investigations not related to Jan. 6 to target critics, suggesting a broader strategy to undermine opposition. “I understand the theory behind it,” Kinzinger explained, noting the aggressive posture Trump has taken on these matters.

Kinzinger cited the experiences of Brad Raffensperger in Georgia as an example of such tactics currently in play. Raffensperger, the Georgia secretary of state, faced significant pressure and legal challenges while defending his stance on the situation

Through that illustration, Kinzinger asserted what he said was the dubious nature of these tactics, highlighting their financial implication more than their legal merit.

Kinzinger also put forward the notion that accepting a pardon could be perceived as an admission of guilt, a narrative he fervently rejects. He asserted, “I’m guilty of nothing besides bringing the truth to the American people.”

He believes his actions have not only embarrassed Trump but also revealed what he called Trump's inaction during critical moments on Jan. 6.

Expressing Confidence, Defiance

Firm in his resolve, Kinzinger declared his unwillingness to accept a pardon, stating, “So no, I don’t want it.” His defiance extends to showing the American public the principles he believes should be upheld to preserve democracy. By refusing a pardon, Kinzinger says he plans to illustrate how legal processes can serve as educational tools for the public, ensuring that democratic values are protected.

Kinzinger's critique also included his views on future legal maneuvers he anticipates from Trump. He suggested these efforts will likely aim to exhaust financial resources through lengthy proceedings rather than seeking actual convictions. By doing so, Trump's sphere would apply pressure on critics, making legal defense costly and challenging.

As the country prepares for President-elect Trump's assumption of office, his intentions remain a topic of considerable discourse. Trump's bold assertion that Jan. 6 panel members “should go to jail” emphasizes the contentious relationship he shares with individuals like Kinzinger.

Responses From Key Political Figures

Kinzinger is not alone in his stance. Sen. Adam Schiff also voiced his rejection of preemptive pardons, indicating concerns about the precedent they might establish. Schiff's perspective aligns with Kinzinger’s, as they both emphasize what they says is the importance of a legal and political framework that does not habitually employ pardons.

On the other side, Kinzinger and Cheney took a rare step within their party by publicly endorsing Vice President Harris over Trump in the recent election. This endorsement is indicative of their persistent opposition to Trump’s leadership style and policies.

As both politicians navigate their roles post-Trump's re-election, they continue to represent a branch of the Republican Party that prioritizes principles over party allegiance.

Their decisions and actions shed light on the internal conflicts within the GOP and their vision for the nation's future.

Kinzinger’s narrative concludes with an acknowledgment of his readiness to face potential legal battles. Expressing a desire to remain a custodian of democratic ideals, he remarked, “And if that’s a process to save, you know, democracy, then I’m happy to fight that fight.”

In the evolving political landscape, Kinzinger says he is a champion of transparency and accountability. His refusal to seek a pardon underscores what he says is broader commitment to uphold what he perceives as American democratic principles.