Official White House announcements or public records of presidential pardons

Biden Considers Preemptive Pardons for Cheney and Fauci Amid Trump's Retribution Threats

Jan 8, 2025, 07:31 PM

President Joe Biden has confirmed he is considering issuing preemptive pardons to individuals who could be targeted by President-elect Donald Trump's administration. In an interview with USA Today, Biden mentioned former Rep. Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci as potential recipients of such pardons, citing concerns about Trump's intentions to pursue retribution against his political adversaries. Biden has not made a final decision, indicating that his choice might depend on Trump's appointments to key positions. Biden has previously urged Trump not to 'settle scores' with political rivals, a warning he says Trump listened to without reinforcing any plans to do otherwise. Biden's consideration of preemptive pardons comes as he plans to issue more traditional pardons before his term ends on January 20.