President Joe Biden has issued preemptive pardons to several individuals, including Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley, as a protective measure against potential reprisals by the incoming Trump administration. The pardons, announced in the final hours of Biden's presidency, aim to shield key figures from what is perceived as an impending “revenge” campaign by former President Donald Trump. Among those pardoned are members of the House committee that investigated the January 6 attack on the US Capitol, as well as former Republican representatives Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, both vocal critics of Trump.
In a political climate marked by heightened tensions, Biden’s decision underscores his concern over Trump's intentions. The former president has openly warned of an "enemies list," targeting those he perceives as adversaries. This list includes individuals who challenged his actions related to his 2020 election defeat, which culminated in the storming of the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Trump has already nominated Cabinet members who support his unfounded election claims and have pledged to penalize those involved in probing his conduct.
Biden's unprecedented use of presidential pardon power extends beyond those currently under investigation. It covers individuals like Fauci, who played a pivotal role in managing the nation's Covid-19 response and faced backlash from Trump for not endorsing his unsubstantiated claims. Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, publicly criticized Trump as a fascist and has expressed relief at avoiding potential retribution.
"After 43 years of faithful service in uniform to our nation, protecting and defending the constitution, I do not wish to spend whatever remaining time the Lord grants me fighting those who unjustly might seek retribution for perceived slights," – Mark Milley
The pardons also protect Cheney and Kinzinger, two Republicans who have been steadfast in their criticism of Trump's actions post-election. Biden's move is a significant step, reflecting his administration's stance against perceived political vendettas.
"These are exceptional circumstances, and I cannot in good conscience do nothing," – Joe Biden
Biden's decision sets a presidential record for the most individual pardons and commutations ever issued. His actions reflect a broader strategy to shield allies from potential legal and political retribution as tensions continue to simmer between political factions.
"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," – Joe Biden