President Biden said in an interview that he is still considering preemptive pardons for Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci, stirring questions about their true necessity.
Key Facts:
• President Biden spoke with USA Today’s Susan Page about possible preemptive pardons.
• The pardons would involve former Congresswoman Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci.
• Some Democrats say the move would block President-elect Trump from investigating Biden allies.
• Biden told Trump he should avoid “settling scores” against critics.
• Trump responded that Biden is free to issue pardons if he chooses.
The Rest of The Story:
In an interview, Biden confirmed that preemptive pardons are “on the table” for allies who could face legal challenges under the incoming administration.
This follows warnings that Trump might pursue investigations against his political adversaries, including those who supported his impeachment.
Some in the Democratic camp believe these pardons would protect key figures who criticized Trump.
White House lawyers are now examining whether such legal measures are necessary and how they would affect the administration’s transition.
Biden says he is still considering pre-emptive pardons for Trump targets Liz Cheney, Fauci and others https://t.co/Yh7Tq6ar7Q
— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 8, 2025
Commentary:
Preemptive pardons often signal that those receiving them could be guilty of something, whether proven in court or not.
If Cheney and Fauci genuinely have nothing to hide, there would be no need for this type of legal protection.
Issuing a pardon now effectively points a finger at wrongdoing, regardless of public statements downplaying the seriousness of any investigation.
The Bottom Line:
Biden’s openness to preemptive pardons has sparked debate over guilt, innocence, and political maneuvering.
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How this unfolds could shape public trust in both the departing and incoming administrations.