President Joe Biden’s administration is reportedly discussing the possibility of preemptive pardons for current and former public officials who may be targeted by the incoming Trump administration. However, Biden has not yet made a decision on the matter. White House officials are debating whether pardons should be granted to individuals who have not committed crimes and the message that such an action would convey.
The discussions have intensified following Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, and concerns about retribution from Trump’s pick for FBI Director, Kash Patel. Individuals being considered for preemptive pardons include outspoken Trump critic Liz Cheney, Dr. Anthony Fauci, Senator-elect Adam Schiff, and retired Gen. Mark Milley.
Key figures leading the process are White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients and White House counsel Ed Siskel. While a White House spokesperson declined to comment, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre hinted at more pardons from Biden before his term ends.
Preemptive pardons for potential offenses that have not been charged are largely untested in the U.S. Constitution, giving the president broad pardon powers. The conversations come amid a tense political climate where concerns about retaliation and legal actions loom large. Politico was the first to report on the discussions within the Biden administration.
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