In a dramatic and unprecedented move just hours before leaving office, President Joe Biden has issued a series of pre-emptive pardons to prominent figures who could face politically motivated charges under the incoming administration of Donald Trump. The pardons include former COVID-19 advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired general Mark Milley, and members of the U.S. House committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol attack.
Biden issued a statement on Monday, emphasizing the need to protect these individuals from potential “politically motivated prosecutions” that could be initiated once Trump assumes office. “These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction, and they do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions,” Biden said, asserting that he could not, in good conscience, remain inactive as these figures faced potential legal battles.
Among the key figures pardoned are Dr. Fauci, who became the face of America’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the Trump administration, Fauci’s clear and science-backed messages often put him at odds with the president and his allies, who criticized his approach. His prominence during the pandemic made him a frequent target for right-wing figures, including Elon Musk, who called for his prosecution.
General Milley, who served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Trump, was also granted a pardon. Milley had drawn Trump’s ire after making critical remarks about the former president and discussing his actions during the January 6 attack. Furthermore, Milley’s secret communications with his Chinese counterpart during the Capitol riot, aimed at reassuring China of the U.S. military’s stability, sparked a storm of controversy, with Trump calling for his execution on social media.
In addition to Fauci and Milley, Biden also pardoned members, staff, and witnesses associated with the House committee investigating the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. These individuals, including former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, faced significant personal and political threats as they uncovered the extent of Trump’s involvement in the violent attack by his supporters.
Biden’s decision to issue these pardons was framed as a protective measure for public servants who have been subjected to what he described as “baseless and politically motivated investigations” that, according to him, have caused undue harm to these individuals’ personal and professional lives. The pardons, however, were also accompanied by a statement clarifying that they should not be viewed as an admission of any wrongdoing.
Trump, who was set to be inaugurated on the same day, has repeatedly promised “retribution” against his political opponents. He has vowed to use the full extent of his power to prosecute those he sees as enemies, including members of the January 6 committee and figures who opposed his agenda during his presidency.
This move, just hours before the transfer of power, highlights the tension between Biden and Trump as the political landscape prepares for a new chapter. Biden’s actions signal a firm stance against what he perceives as politically motivated legal tactics and retribution, even as Trump begins his second term in office.