Official statements from the White House or Department of Justice

Biden Mulls Preemptive Pardons for Trump Targets, Including Hillary Clinton

Dec 11, 2024, 06:39 PM

President Joe Biden is reportedly considering issuing preemptive pardons for individuals who might be targeted by the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump. This includes figures like Adam Schiff, Mark Milley, Anthony Fauci, and Jack Smith, according to Judicial Watch. The consideration comes amidst discussions on various platforms, including 'The View,' where former President Bill Clinton was asked about the possibility of a preemptive pardon for his wife, Hillary Clinton. Clinton indicated he would be open to discussing such a pardon with Biden but refrained from giving public advice on the matter, emphasizing that the decision on pardons is a personal one for the President. Senator Richard Blumenthal has voiced strong opposition to these preemptive pardons, arguing that they would appear as admissions of guilt. The debate over preemptive pardons has sparked discussions on the legality and ethics of such actions, with some viewing it as an unprecedented expansion of presidential power.