In a recent interview, Biden revealed that he has not yet made a decision regarding preemptive pardons for critics of Trump, including individuals like former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) and Anthony Fauci. During his discussion with USA Today, he remarked, “Well, a little bit of it depends on who he puts in what positions.”
When asked by USA Today’s Susan Page if he was still evaluating the issue, Biden replied, “Well, no, I have not. For example, I think there are certain people like, if he were to, I don’t want to name their names.” He further mentioned that his administration is committed to granting clemency for those convicted related to powder cocaine use.
Within the Democratic Party, some members have suggested that Biden should consider issuing preemptive pardons for individuals who could be targets of the incoming Trump administration, particularly those involved in the House panel that investigated the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.
Concerns have been raised among Democrats regarding Trump’s selection for the FBI leadership role, Kash Patel, who has previously expressed intentions to target the so-called “deep state.”
However, certain individuals, including former Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) and Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), both of whom participated in the January 6 committee, have rejected the notion of accepting a pardon.
Kinzinger stated, “The second you take a pardon and it looks like you’re guilty of something — I’m guilty of nothing besides bringing the truth to the American people,” during an interview on Monday.
