President Joe Biden and his senior aides are actively discussing a bold and unprecedented move: issuing pre-emptive pardons to individuals frequently targeted by former President Donald Trump. This development comes as Trump has reportedly hinted at plans for political retribution, raising concerns among Democrats and other prominent figures. According to two sources familiar with the discussions, the conversations reflect an attempt to shield individuals from potential retaliation.
Biden team reportedly considering preemptive pardons for Fauci, Schiff, other Trump 'targets' https://t.co/iLMZQRH1DD
— Fox News (@FoxNews) December 5, 2024
While no official list has been finalized, the discussions have reportedly included notable names such as Senator-elect Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Dr. Anthony Fauci, and former Representative Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.). All three have faced sharp criticism from Trump in recent years, with Schiff being a prominent figure during Trump’s first impeachment, Fauci enduring backlash over his COVID-19 guidance, and Cheney drawing ire for her role on the January 6th Committee.
Although pre-emptive pardons are rare, they are not without precedent. Legal experts note that such pardons could serve as a preventive measure to defuse potential future legal battles or politically motivated charges. However, critics argue that issuing pardons in advance could set a controversial standard, particularly when no formal charges exist against those being considered.
Despite the preliminary nature of these discussions, they underscore the broader political tensions that continue to ripple through Washington. With Trump remaining a dominant force in American politics, Biden’s administration appears to be exploring all possible avenues to counter perceived threats against political and public figures.
As the discussions remain behind closed doors, it remains to be seen whether this bold idea will gain traction within the Biden administration. For now, the possibility of pre-emptive pardons adds yet another layer of intrigue to the already complex political landscape.