Biden Eyes Pardons For Cheney And Fauci, May Plan To Shield More From Justice
President Joe Biden has revealed he is considering preemptive pardons for individuals who may face legal scrutiny under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. Among those reportedly being considered are Liz Cheney, the former Republican congresswoman, and Anthony Fauci, the former chief of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
During an interview, Biden recounted meeting with Trump in November, urging him to avoid targeting political opponents. “I tried to make it clear that there was no need…to settle scores,” Biden said, adding that Trump gave no clear response.
Cheney has been accused of witness tampering during her time on the January 6 committee, a claim Trump has highlighted repeatedly. Fauci, whose handling of the pandemic has drawn heavy criticism from Republicans, may also face inquiries under the new administration.
Trump’s key nominations have fueled speculation about upcoming investigations. Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, selected for attorney general, and Kash Patel, chosen for FBI director, have both pledged to address what they describe as corruption within the government. Patel has outlined plans to overhaul the FBI, including decentralizing its operations.
Biden’s pardons would follow his controversial decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, in December. Hunter Biden faced federal charges related to tax evasion and firearms possession. Critics argue that this undermines Biden’s earlier promises to stay out of his family’s legal matters.
Trump has brushed off concerns over the potential pardons, stating, “Biden can give them a pardon if he wants to. And maybe he should.”
