Biden Issues Preemptive Pardons for Fauci and January 6 Committee Members

Joe Biden has issued pre-emptive pardons to Covid response chief Anthony Fauci, members of the January 6th riot investigation team, and former Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman Mark Milley to prevent what he described as "unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions."

The outgoing president stated: "Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment and service."

Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated on Monday, frequently clashed with Dr. Fauci during the pandemic and has suggested he might take action against individuals who sought to hold him accountable for the January 6th Capitol riot. Biden’s pardons appear aimed at insulating key figures from potential retaliation under the incoming administration.

In addition to Dr. Fauci and the January 6th committee members, Biden extended clemency to Mark Milley, who had described Trump as "fascist to the core" in comments last year. Biden clarified that the pardons were not an acknowledgment of wrongdoing but rather a protective measure against politically motivated investigations.

Democratic leaders had expressed concern about the implications of these pardons. Senator Adam Schiff warned they could set a "troubling precedent" for outgoing presidents to issue broad clemency as a shield for allies.

Dr. Fauci welcomed the decision, telling US media that the threat of prosecution had caused "immeasurable and intolerable distress" to his family. "Let me be perfectly clear: I have committed no crime, and there is no basis for any allegations against me," he asserted.

General Milley, 66, also expressed gratitude to Biden, stating that the pardon spared him from the prospect of spending his later years fighting politically motivated retribution. "I do not want to subject my family, friends, or former colleagues to unnecessary distraction, expense, or anxiety," he said in a statement.

The pardons also cover all members of the House Select Committee investigating the January 6th riot, along with staff and officers who provided testimony. Former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn expressed his appreciation, praising Biden for his leadership and recognizing the difficult political climate. "I, like all other public servants, was simply doing my job and upholding my oath," Dunn said.

Trump, meanwhile, has hinted at pardons for some individuals convicted for their roles in the Capitol riot. Speaking on Sunday, he said, "You're going to see something tomorrow. I think you'll be very, very happy." On the campaign trail, Trump frequently spoke about targeting "enemies from within" and has endorsed officials who have promised to seek accountability for his adversaries.

Pam Bondi, Trump’s nominee for attorney general, sought to temper concerns about partisan retribution, telling Congress during her confirmation hearing last week that there would be no "enemies list" and pledging that the Justice Department would not pursue investigations based on political motivations.