Official announcements from the White House or a presidential executive order

Biden Considers Preemptive Pardons for Fauci, Cheney, Schiff, and Biden Family Amid Trump Concerns

Jan 10, 2025, 11:16 PM

President Joe Biden is considering issuing preemptive pardons for several individuals, including Anthony Fauci, former head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Liz Cheney, former Representative, and potentially Sen. Adam Schiff and Jim Biden. This consideration comes amid concerns that the incoming Trump administration might prosecute these figures. Biden has already issued a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, and has hinted that his decision on further pardons might be influenced by the actions and appointees of President-elect Donald Trump. The potential recipients of these pardons have been criticized by Trump and his supporters, with some lawmakers calling for Fauci's prosecution due to his role during the Covid crisis and Cheney's involvement in the Jan. 6 investigation. Biden's contemplation of preemptive pardons is a rare move, as only three presidents have ever used such pardons.