Anthony Fauci, Liz Cheney, and Adam Schiff may receive preemptive pardons from the Biden administration, according to reports.
Reports from Politico and CBS News indicate that President Biden is considering issuing broad pardons to prominent critics of President-elect Trump, potentially shielding them from future prosecution.
Recent pardons issued by Biden, including one with an unusually wide scope, have faced criticism even within his own party.
Politico reported that Democrats aim to protect individuals from potential retribution by Trump after his inauguration. CBS News cited anonymous sources stating that White House Chief of Staff Jeffrey Zients and chief counsel Ed Siskel are discussing the pardons and potential recipients.
Among those reportedly under consideration is Dr. Anthony Fauci, whose role in COVID-19 lockdowns and mandates has been subject to scrutiny. A congressional report alleges Fauci’s involvement in concealing the funding of the Wuhan lab, where the virus is believed to have originated.
Retired General Mark Milley, who publicly criticized Trump, is another potential recipient. Milley has acknowledged contacting his Chinese counterpart before and after the January 6th Capitol riot.
Trump has commented on these revelations, suggesting Milley should face a treason trial. Milley himself has expressed concern about potential repercussions if Trump returns to power.
Liz Cheney, a former Republican congresswoman who joined the Democrats, and Adam Schiff, a senator-elect who led Trump’s impeachment proceedings, are also reportedly on the potential pardon list.
While presidents can pardon individuals convicted of federal offenses, preemptive pardons are less common. Historical examples include President Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon, President Carter’s blanket pardon for Vietnam War draft evaders, and President George H.W. Bush’s pardon of Caspar Weinberger.