Statements from political figures reported by major news outlets

Biden Pardons Milley, Fauci, Liz Cheney, and Others to Guard Against Potential Trump 'Revenge'

Jan 20, 2025, 12:19 PM

President Joe Biden, in the final hours of his presidency, has issued preemptive pardons for General Mark Milley, Dr. Anthony Fauci, members of Congress including Liz Cheney and staff who served on the January 6 Select Committee, as well as police officers who testified before the committee. In a statement, Biden emphasized that the issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment of wrongdoing, describing the circumstances as 'exceptional.' He stated, 'These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated investigations.' Biden added that he 'cannot in good conscience do nothing.' The pardons are seen as an extraordinary use of presidential power to guard against potential 'revenge' or 'retribution' by the incoming Trump administration.