In his final moments as president, Joe Biden issued pre-emptive pardons to several family members, including his siblings James, Francis, Frank Biden, and Valerie Biden Owens, citing protection from politically motivated attacks.
The last-minute decision followed earlier pardons for Dr. Anthony Fauci and January 6 investigation committee members to prevent what Biden termed “unjustified politically motivated prosecutions.” Biden emphasized these public servants’ dedication to the nation.
The move comes amid longstanding tension with Trump, who frequently clashed with Dr. Fauci during the pandemic and suggested action against those involved in the January 6 investigation. Trump had previously made unproven corruption allegations against the Bidens, though a 2023 House Republican investigation found no criminal wrongdoing.
Biden extended pardons to his in-laws Sara Jones Biden and John Owens, adding to an earlier pardon for his son Hunter Biden, who faced sentencing in two criminal cases. He also commuted indigenous activist Leonard Peltier’s life sentence to house arrest.
Trump’s team responded strongly, with incoming deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich calling the pardons “the greatest attack on America’s justice system in history” and “a dangerous erosion of American norms.”
The pardons also covered former Joint Chiefs chairman Mark Milley, who had described Trump as “fascist to the core,” and all members of the January 6 House Select Committee, including their staff and testifying officers. While these pardons protect against criminal prosecution, they don’t prevent congressional investigations.
Democratic Senator Adam Schiff warned about setting a precedent for broad presidential pardons. Dr. Fauci expressed gratitude, stating he had committed no crime, while Gen. Milley acknowledged wanting to avoid potential retribution.
Trump has indicated plans to pardon January 6 rioters and campaigned against “enemies from within.” However, his attorney general nominee Pam Bondi assured during confirmation hearings that the justice department would not target individuals based on politics.
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