Washington, DC [US]: In a striking use of presidential authority, US President Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons on Monday for General Mark Milley, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and members of Congress who served on the January 6 committee. The move aims to shield them from potential retaliatory actions by incoming President Donald Trump, CNN reported.
The pardons, granted during Biden’s final hours in office, represent an unprecedented exercise of presidential power. Among the recipients is former Republican Representative Liz Cheney, a staunch critic of Trump who has been a vocal target of his retribution pledges.
“These are exceptional circumstances, and I cannot in good conscience do nothing,” Biden stated. He emphasized that “baseless and politically motivated investigations wreak havoc on the lives, safety, and financial security of targeted individuals and their families.”
Biden’s decision, reportedly considered for weeks, was driven by concerns that Trump might pursue legal action against his critics after assuming office. Biden noted the increasing threats and intimidation faced by public servants for faithfully executing their duties.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, who led the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases during Trump’s first term and the COVID-19 pandemic, has faced sharp criticism from Trump and his allies. General Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has also been a target, with Trump labeling him a “fascist.”
In his statement, Biden clarified that the pardons do not imply guilt:
“The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that any individual engaged in any wrongdoing, nor should acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any offense. Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment to our country,” he said, as reported by CNN.
While historical examples, such as President Gerald Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon, involved individuals facing actual legal jeopardy, none of the recipients of Biden’s pardons appeared at imminent risk of prosecution. However, Biden deemed the potential threat significant enough to act.
General Milley expressed gratitude in a statement to CNN, saying:
“After forty-three years of faithful service in uniform to our nation, protecting and defending the Constitution, I do not wish to spend whatever remaining time the Lord grants me fighting those who unjustly might seek retribution for perceived slights.” He added, “I do not want to put my family, my friends, and those with whom I served through the resulting distraction, expense, and anxiety.”
This extraordinary move underscores the tense political climate and highlights Biden’s concerns about preserving the integrity of public service amidst rising polarization.