Biden weighs pre-emptive pardons for critics of Trump

Joe Biden's recent pardoning of his son Hunter has caused controversy

Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden is reportedly considering issuing pre-emptive pardons for prominent critics of his successor, Donald Trump, in an effort to protect them from potential retaliation once Trump takes office. Multiple sources familiar with the discussions have shared this information with CBS, the BBC's U.S. partner.

Biden is said to have debated the possibility of pardons with senior White House aides, although no specific individuals have been formally recommended. Sources have also indicated that officials are weighing the implications of pardoning individuals who have not been convicted of crimes, especially following the controversy surrounding Biden's pardon of his son, Hunter, who faced federal felony gun and tax convictions.

Some Republicans and Democrats have criticized Biden's decision to pardon Hunter, despite his earlier statements that he would not take such a step.

Potential individuals who could receive pre-emptive pardons from Biden include Dr. Anthony Fauci, who clashed with Trump over COVID-19 policy, and California Senator-elect Adam Schiff, who led Trump's first impeachment. Other Democrats involved in Trump's impeachment trials or investigations into the January 6 Capitol riots could also be considered.

In an interview with NPR, Schiff expressed skepticism about pre-emptive pardons, saying he believed the courts could withstand any threats from Trump. "I think it would seem defensive and unnecessary," he stated.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre mentioned earlier this week that more pardons could be issued before the end of Biden's term, but did not provide specifics, noting that Biden is carefully considering the decision.

Additionally, Biden may issue more traditional pardons for individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes, such as drug offenses, according to CBS.

Meanwhile, Trump has also signaled intentions for retribution against those he perceives as opponents. His FBI director nominee, Kash Patel, has vowed to target politicians and media figures who allegedly helped challenge the 2020 election results.

In response, Democratic Congressman Brendan Boyle suggested that Biden should grant blanket pardons to those on Trump's "enemies list." He criticized Trump's focus on personal vendettas, calling it a threat to the rule of law.