President Trump plans to address the Democrats’ use of presidential pardons for political gain at a later date.
On Monday, President Donald Trump criticized his predecessor, Joe Biden, for pardoning family members, including his brother James, who faces Republican accusations of influence peddling and false statements to Congress. Earlier in December, President Biden controversially pardoned his son Hunter, erasing his gun crime conviction record.
Following his inauguration, Trump commented on Biden’s pardons at an executive order signing ceremony, calling them “unfortunate.”
Trump later reiterated his intention to pardon those convicted for the January 6th Capitol riot at a Washington D.C. event. He stated his advisors suggested avoiding mention of Biden’s pardons in his inaugural address.
“I finished my speech, and they said, ‘Sir he pardoned his whole family’. I said: ‘Oh, can I go back out there and talk about it?’,” Trump told supporters, adding: “We have plenty of time to talk about it.”
Biden also shielded General Mark Milley, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and members of the January 6th committee from prosecution. Trump reportedly called the pardons “disgraceful” and stated that “many are guilty of MAJOR CRIMES,” according to NBC anchor Kristen Welker.
Biden stated his pardons shouldn’t be interpreted as acknowledging any wrongdoing. Democrats argued Trump could misuse his power for personal vendettas.
Critics, including Milley, labeled Trump a “fascist” during his campaign. Trump countered by accusing his opponents of a political “witch hunt.”
Trump’s election victory marks a precedent, as he’s the first US president elected after a felony conviction related to hush money payments to Stormy Daniels.