Public statements or announcements by Donald Trump or his administration

Michael Cohen Seeks Preemptive Biden Pardon, Cites Hunter Biden Comparison

Jan 12, 2025, 05:52 PM

Michael Cohen, former attorney for Donald Trump, has publicly requested a preemptive presidential pardon from President Joe Biden. Cohen argued that Biden has an obligation to protect individuals like him from potential retribution by Donald Trump, who is set to assume office. Cohen likened his situation to that of Hunter Biden, the president's son, who received a pardon in December. During a televised appearance on MSNBC, Cohen stated, "I would expect the same exact pardon that he gave his son." However, MSNBC host Symone Sanders-Townsend pushed back, emphasizing that Cohen is not the president's son and suggesting his comparison was flawed. Cohen, who previously served three years in prison for federal crimes, including tax evasion and campaign finance violations, cited his 51 days in solitary confinement as a reason for his plea. He expressed concerns about being on Trump's "enemies list" and the potential consequences of Trump's return to power.