In a dramatic move just moments before President-elect Donald Trump entered the Capitol rotunda to be sworn in as the next commander in chief, the White House announced a series of preemptive pardons issued by President Joe Biden. The pardons, aimed at several of his family members, were intended to shield them from what Biden described as "baseless and politically motivated investigations." The announcement came as a surprise, underscoring the President’s concerns about potential legal challenges his family might face.
The White House press release detailed that President Biden granted pardons to his brother James Biden, James' wife Sara Jones Biden, his younger sister Valerie Biden Owens, her husband John Owens, and his other brother Francis Biden. This strategic move was executed just minutes before Trump's inauguration ceremony, showcasing an effort to protect his close relatives from anticipated legal scrutiny.
President Biden's decision to issue these pardons was reportedly driven by apprehensions that his family members might be unjustly targeted by investigations perceived to be politically driven. By taking this preemptive action, Biden aimed to circumvent any potential harm that might arise from such investigations.
"The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that they engaged in any wrongdoing, nor should acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any offense," stated President Joe Biden in the official announcement.
The timing of the announcement was particularly notable, occurring shortly before the formal transition of power to President-elect Trump. As Trump prepared to take the oath of office, the news of Biden's pardons for his family members added an unexpected dimension to the day's events.
This preemptive measure reflects President Biden's determination to safeguard his family from what he perceives as politically motivated threats. By issuing these pardons, he aims to eliminate any potential legal entanglements that could arise from accusations deemed unfounded.