President Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons on Monday for Dr. Anthony Fauci, Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House January 6 select committee, just hours before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The move aims to shield these individuals from potential politically motivated prosecutions under the incoming administration. The sweeping pardons also cover Capitol Police officers and staffers who testified before the Jan. 6 committee, all of whom Trump has publicly criticized. This last-minute decision marks a dramatic conclusion to Biden’s presidency as Washington prepares for a major political shift.
Who Did Biden Pardon? Full List of Recipients
Dr. Anthony Fauci – Former Chief Medical Advisor, led U.S. COVID-19 response, frequently targeted by Trump over pandemic policies. Gen. Mark Milley – Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, military advisor under multiple administrations, criticized by Trump for his role in defense decisions. Members & Staff of the Jan. 6 Committee – Investigated the Capitol riot, faced threats of legal action from Trump and his allies. Capitol & Metropolitan Police Officers – Officers who testified before Congress about the Jan. 6 attack, recognized for their service but targeted by Trump’s criticisms. Biden’s pardons ensure these individuals are protected from legal actions that may arise under Trump’s presidency.
Historical Context: Precedents for Preemptive Pardons
Biden’s decision follows historical precedents where presidents have issued preemptive pardons to prevent political retaliation. Gerald Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon after Watergate is the most well-known case, issued to prevent further political division. Donald Trump himself granted controversial pardons during his presidency, including for political allies like Michael Flynn, Roger Stone, and Paul Manafort. Some legal scholars argue Biden’s move aligns with past practices, while others claim it is an overreach of executive power.
Why Did Biden Issue These Preemptive Pardons?
Preventing Political Retaliation – Biden’s team argues these pardons prevent Trump from using the justice system for political revenge. Protecting the Jan. 6 Investigation’s Legacy – The move safeguards the findings of the House Select Committee. Defending Public Officials – Shields Fauci, Milley, and others from potential criminal charges despite a lack of proven misconduct.
Reactions to Biden’s Preemptive Pardons
Supporters Applaud the Move – Democrats and progressives view this as necessary to prevent Trump from targeting officials unfairly. Legal experts debate the constitutional legitimacy of preemptive pardons but acknowledge Biden’s authority. Criticism from Trump & Republicans – Trump calls the pardons “a disgrace” and vows legal challenges. GOP leaders accuse Biden of abusing his power to protect allies. Conservative media frames the decision as shielding officials from accountability.
Can Trump Challenge These Pardons?
Once a presidential pardon is issued, it cannot be revoked by a successor. However, Trump’s Justice Department may attempt to find loopholes, such as investigating individuals for state-level offenses or for crimes not explicitly covered by the pardon. Some legal scholars argue that preemptive pardons may not hold up in court, especially if crimes were not yet committed at the time of the pardon.
International Reactions & Political Fallout
Global leaders and international media have taken notice of Biden’s dramatic move. European allies, who were critical of Trump’s presidency, largely support the pardons as a defense against authoritarianism. However, some political analysts suggest that this sets a dangerous precedent, allowing outgoing presidents to shield their allies indefinitely. The decision has also sparked heated debates on social media, with #BidenPardons trending on Twitter as both supporters and critics weigh in.
Public Opinion: How Are Americans Reacting?
Early polls suggest a nation divided on Biden’s preemptive pardons. According to a Reuters/Ipsos snap poll, 48% of Americans support the pardons, seeing them as a necessary safeguard against political persecution. 45% oppose the decision, believing Biden is abusing executive power. The remaining 7% are undecided but want to see how Trump handles the situation after taking office.
Final Thoughts
Biden’s preemptive pardons for Fauci, Milley, and the Jan. 6 committee members mark one of his presidency’s most controversial final acts. Some see it as a safeguard against Trump’s political retaliation, while others call it an abuse of executive power. What do you think of Biden’s pardons? Should Trump challenge them? Drop a comment below! Stay tuned for the latest updates on Biden, Trump, and the power struggle in Washington!
