Biden Issues Preemptive Pardons to Fauci and Milley as Safeguard Against Trump Retaliation

President Joe Biden has granted pardons to Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack. This strategic move is intended to shield them from potential retaliation by Donald Trump's incoming administration, as Trump has suggested creating a list of adversaries who opposed him.

Biden clarified, "The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that any individual engaged in any wrongdoing."

Mark Milley, who is the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff called Trump a fascist and detailed Trump's conduct around the January 6 insurrection.

Mr Biden is also extending pardons to members and staff of the January 6 committee, including Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger, both Republicans, as well as the US Capitol and DC Metropolitan police officers who testified before the committee.

President Biden has promised a smooth transition to the next administration.

While it is customary for outgoing presidents to grant clemency, Biden's decision is notable for its unprecedented application to individuals who have not been under investigation or accused of any crimes.