In an act of farewell, US President Joe Biden used presidential power to issue pardons for Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House committee that investigated the January 6 attack on the Capitol. The move aims to protect several key figures from potential retaliation by the incoming Trump administration.
“Our nation relies on dedicated, selfless public servants every day. They are the lifeblood of our democracy,” Biden stated. “Yet alarmingly, public servants have been subjected to ongoing threats and intimidation for faithfully discharging their duties.”
The pardons come amid concerns about President-elect Donald Trump’s intentions, as he has hinted at retribution against those who opposed him. The list of pardoned individuals includes former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney and Dr. Fauci, both of whom have been frequent targets of Trump’s ire.
“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,” Biden clarified. “Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment to our country.”
Dr. Fauci, who served as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, faced intense criticism from the right during the COVID-19 pandemic for his public health guidance. Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was outspoken about his concerns over Trump’s leadership, even labeling him a fascist.
Biden also extended pardons to members of the January 6 committee, including former Rep. Adam Kinzinger and several police officers who testified about the Capitol insurrection.
“These are exceptional circumstances, and I cannot in good conscience do nothing,” Biden remarked. “Even when individuals have done nothing wrong—and in fact have done the right thing—the mere fact of being investigated or prosecuted can irreparably damage reputations and finances.”
Biden’s decision to issue preemptive pardons, a break from political norms, underscores his concerns about the fragility of American democracy. “It depends on some of the language and expectations that Trump broadcasts in the last couple of days here as to what he’s going to do,” Biden said earlier this month when asked about his decision.
Biden’s farewell address included a warning about the dangers of a growing oligarchy, highlighting the risks posed by Trump’s return to power. In addition to the pardons, Biden commuted the sentences of nearly 2,500 individuals convicted of nonviolent drug offenses and reduced the sentences of most federal death row inmates to life imprisonment.
As Biden leaves office, he has set a record for the most individual pardons and commutations issued, a testament to his commitment to justice and democracy.
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