Staff Reports
In a political twist that has become all too familiar, President Joe Biden has found himself in the hot seat over the issue of preemptive pardons. While running for office, Biden made quite the show of saying that he would never resort to preemptive pardons. However, as he navigates the tumultuous waters of his presidency, one can’t help but ask if he still stands by that promise.
The president has been criticized for a range of actions, and the notion of issuing pardons has bubbled to the surface once again. Many recall that back when he first took office, rumors swirled that Biden was considering a blanket pardon for a range of individuals. However, he firmly stated that he would not be doling out pardons indiscriminately, including for himself. This stance raises eyebrows, especially considering how contentious political issues have unfolded in the past couple of years.
Those who have faced legal consequences for their actions during the turbulent political climate have become pivotal figures in this conversation. The likes of Steve Bannon and Peter Navarro found themselves in legal hot water, leading to discussions about the unfair treatment of those associated with former President Trump. Supporters argue that these individuals, labeled as “incredible patriots,” have been wronged and have suffered not only legally but financially as well. Many have drained their life savings defending themselves in court, making the case that they deserve some acknowledgment from the higher echelons of government.
Biden’s administration seems more concerned with appearing above the fray, but the irony isn’t lost on anyone watching from the sidelines. While Biden has opted against issuing pardons in general terms, former President Trump engaged in a wild spree of pardons during his time in office. Yet, amusingly enough, Trump forgot to give himself a pardon, which leaves one to wonder about the true motivations behind such actions. Was it for loyalty to his inner circle or simply a way to escape criticism?
In January 2025, Biden issued preemptive pardons to several high-profile individuals, including his family members and notable critics of Trump such as former Republican Representative Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci. This action was motivated by concerns that incoming President Donald Trump might pursue legal actions against those he perceives as adversaries. Biden remarked that these public servants “have served our nation with honor and distinction” and should not be targets of politically motivated prosecutions.
In the end, the debate around pardons underscores deeper issues within the current political landscape. It opens up questions about justice, accountability, and whether certain individuals are being unfairly targeted. The call for fairness resonates louder than ever as people reflect on the implications of these decisions, illustrating the ongoing struggle between different political factions.
As this saga continues to unfold, one thing is for sure: the conversation around pardons is far from over. Whether Biden will stick to his original promise or bow to pressure remains to be seen, but in the world of politics, anything is possible. The only certainty is that both sides will continue to capitalize on such events to further their narratives, and the American public will be watching closely.
