President Joe Biden and his senior aides are discussing the idea of issuing pre-emptive pardons for individuals targeted by President-elect Donald Trump, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Trump has made threatening comments about certain individuals, including Senator-elect Adam Schiff, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and former Rep. Liz Cheney, who have spoken out against him or are seen as adversaries.
Some Democrats and “Never Trump” Republicans have supported the notion of pre-emptive pardons to protect individuals under a new Trump presidency. The idea of issuing pardons is not new, as previous presidents have used this authority to protect individuals who may face prosecution or retaliation.
Rep. Adam Schiff, Rep. Liz Cheney, and Dr. Anthony Fauci have all been targets of Trump’s criticism and threatening statements. Schiff and Cheney served on the House select committee that investigated the January 6 attack on the Capitol, while Fauci clashed with Trump over the response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The discussions of pre-emptive pardons have not yet progressed to the point of consensus on an actual list, sources said. However, the idea is being explored as part of the president’s use of clemency authority on criminal justice cases. Announcements on these decisions are expected in the coming weeks.
