
President Biden’s recent pardons of key figures, including Dr. Anthony Fauci and Gen. Mark Milley, have ignited a firestorm of controversy and debate over the use of presidential clemency powers.
At a Glance
- Biden pardoned Fauci, Milley, and Jan. 6 committee members to protect against potential “revenge” by a future Trump administration
- The pardons were issued in the final hours of Biden’s presidency, marking an unusual use of clemency
- Critics argue these actions could undermine public trust and set a dangerous precedent
- Biden’s pardon of his son Hunter has intensified the controversy
Controversial Pardons Raise Eyebrows
In a move that has shocked even the most diehard Democrats, President Joe Biden has issued a series of pardons to high-profile figures who have been targets of criticism from former President Donald Trump and his supporters. The pardons, which include Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol attack, are seen as a preemptive measure against potential retribution by a future Trump administration.
The timing of these pardons, coming in the final hours of Biden’s presidency, has raised questions about the appropriate use of presidential clemency powers. Critics argue that this unprecedented move could set a dangerous precedent for future administrations, potentially encouraging allies to act without fear of legal consequences.
Biden’s Justification and Reactions
President Biden has defended his actions, emphasizing that the pardons do not imply any wrongdoing by the individuals involved.
In a statement, Biden said, “The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that any individual engaged in any wrongdoing, nor should acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any offense. Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment to our country.”
Dr. Fauci, who faced intense criticism from the right for his role in COVID-19 policies, expressed relief at the pardon.
“I really truly appreciate the action President Biden has taken today on my behalf. I have committed no crime and there are no possible grounds for any allegation or threat of criminal investigation or prosecution of me,” Fauci stated.
Gen. Milley, who had previously criticized Trump, also voiced his gratitude. “I do not wish to spend whatever remaining time the Lord grants me fighting those who unjustly might seek retribution for perceived slights. I do not want to put my family, my friends, and those with whom I served through the resulting distraction, expense, and anxiety,” Milley said.
The pardons have sparked immediate condemnation from Republican lawmakers. Sen. Eric Schmitt criticized Biden’s actions, stating, “The guy who claimed he would ‘protect norms’ continues to bulldoze them and the Constitution until the bitter end. Biden truly is one of the worst Presidents in American history and will only be remembered as the guy between Trump’s two terms.”
Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Biden’s clemency actions is the pardon of his son, Hunter Biden. This move has intensified the public and political uproar, with many seeing it as a breach of Biden’s promise not to intervene on his son’s behalf. Critics argue that this decision could significantly damage Biden’s legacy and further erode public trust in the presidency.
But why, exactly, did Biden pardon him so last minute? It’s obvious! By the time he did it, Trump was already in the Capitol building and ready to give a speech – with no mention of the pardons.
It’s really not any more complicated than that!