Fri Dec 06 08:08:59 UTC 2024: **Biden Weighs Sweeping Pardons for Allies Ahead of Trump Administration**
Washington, D.C. – President Joe Biden is reportedly considering issuing a wide range of preemptive pardons to officials and allies he believes could face legal action under the incoming Trump administration. This unprecedented move, currently under deliberation by White House lawyers and discussed by President Biden with senior aides, would significantly expand the historical use of presidential pardon power.
While pardons typically follow convictions for specific crimes, the Biden administration is exploring pardons for individuals who haven’t even been investigated. The concern stems from fears that President-elect Trump and his allies, who have alluded to “retribution,” could launch costly investigations, regardless of potential prosecutions.
Issuing such pardons could be controversial, potentially fueling accusations of wrongdoing by the recipients. Potential recipients include Dr. Anthony Fauci, who faced criticism from conservatives, and witnesses in Trump’s trials. Some former officials have already contacted the White House seeking protection.
This consideration follows President Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, for federal gun and tax violations, and potential future offenses. This action might serve as a precedent for other pardons. While Trump’s administration reportedly considered similar preemptive pardons for its supporters, they were never issued. The last instance of such a broad preemptive pardon was President Gerald Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon in 1974. The implications of President Biden’s potential actions are far-reaching and continue to be debated.
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