Preemptive Pardons Considered by White House for Biden Administration Officials
White House lawyers are studying preemptive pardons that President Joe Biden has discussed with senior aides. Democrats and media allies have urged Biden to pardon many individuals, including Mark Milley, Christopher Wray, Justice Department lawyers, Joe Biden himself, the whole Biden family, Liz Cheney, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, and Adam Kinzinger. Receiving a preemptive pardon would indicate an admission of guilt, although some Democrats claim it would only be intended to block President-elect Donald Trump from cleaning up Washington.
Key Points
- White House lawyers are studying preemptive pardons for Biden administration officials
- Democrats and media allies have urged Biden to pardon several individuals
- Receiving a preemptive pardon could indicate an admission of guilt
- Some recipients have reached out to the Biden White House seeking protection from the future Trump administration
Pros
- Provides protection for individuals from potential legal actions by future administrations
- Could prevent politically motivated investigations and prosecutions
Cons
- Could be seen as an admission of guilt by recipients
- May lead to public backlash and criticism