On a notable Monday morning, just before the inauguration of President-elect Trump, President Biden extended pardons to several key figures, including Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and former Representative Liz Cheney, as well as other members of the House committee that probed the January 6th, 2021, Capitol disturbance.
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President Biden granted these pardons, described as “full and unconditional,” to safeguard these individuals who have come under attack by the incoming administration. In a statement, he emphasized that these public servants have dedicated themselves to their nation with honor and should not be subjected to unfounded political retaliations.
Among those pardoned were Anthony Fauci, previously the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, who became a central figure in managing the nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fauci had faced considerable criticism from former President Trump and his supporters for challenging Trump’s misleading claims about the pandemic and advocating for vaccination.
General Mark Milley, another recipient, had openly criticized Trump and faced accusations from Trump suggesting that Milley should face military trial. The concerns revolved around allegations of Milley resisting any unconstitutional actions by Trump.
The pardons also encompassed members of the House January 6th committee, chaired by Representative Bennie Thompson with Liz Cheney as vice chair, which concluded its investigation in December 2022. This committee, too, had been a frequent target of Trump, who went as far as suggesting incarceration for its members.
Additionally, Biden pardoned several Capitol and Metropolitan police officers who had testified before the committee, covering any potential offenses related to their testimonies.
This wave of pardons by President Biden does not imply any wrongdoing on the part of the recipients, as he clarified that accepting a pardon is not an admission of guilt. Instead, these pardons aim to protect these individuals from potential politically motivated legal challenges under the new administration.
President Biden’s actions underscore his commitment to the rule of law and the integrity of public service, offering a preemptive safeguard to those he believes were serving the nation’s best interests amidst a highly charged political environment. This move, while unusual in its preemptive nature, reflects Biden’s resolve to use his presidential power to uphold the principles of justice and protect those who have served the country.