Before leaving office, President Joe Biden issued pardons to key allies, including Liz Cheney, Dr. Anthony Fauci, and General Mark Milley, in an attempt to protect them from potential prosecution by the Trump administration.
While some viewed this move as smart and strategic, it could backfire.
By granting pardons, Biden’s allies can no longer invoke the Fifth Amendment if subpoenaed to testify in civil, criminal, or congressional proceedings. Critics argue that these pardons may be misused, particularly if they shield individuals from facing charges in a biased venue like Washington, D.C.
Following the pardons, Republican lawmakers criticized Biden, accusing him of protecting his family and associates from legal scrutiny. This decision could influence future clemency policies, with pardons potentially being used as political tools.