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The Biden Team Considers Blanket Pardons to Protect Against Trump’s Promised ‘Retribution

In Citizen
January 18, 2025

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The Biden administration is contemplating granting blanket pardons in anticipation of potential retaliation from the outgoing Trump administration. Officials at the White House are concerned that Trump’s appointment of individuals with strong partisan views to key law enforcement positions suggests a desire to seek revenge against those he considers his adversaries.

Written by Peter Baker and Erica L. Green

Writing from the nation

The team working for President Biden is discussing the possibility of granting pardons to a group of individuals who are seen as enemies of President-elect Donald J. Trump. This is being considered in order to shield them from any potential retaliation that Trump has mentioned he may pursue once he assumes office.

The proposal is to grant executive clemency in advance to a group of current and former government officials for any potential offenses committed over several years, thereby preventing the next president from carrying out any promised acts of retaliation.

White House officials are concerned that the individuals being considered for top positions in the Justice Department by Mr. Trump may lead to investigations and legal issues for them. Although no crimes have been committed, there is a fear that these selections could result in prolonged investigations that could be financially burdensome and damaging to their careers, even if no charges are ultimately filed.

The topic of blanket pardons, which was first reported by Politico, is currently being discussed mainly among staff members. However, President Biden has also brought it up with senior members of his team. These details were shared by sources who wished to remain anonymous in order to discuss confidential discussions. This discussion follows President Biden’s decision to pardon his son Hunter, in order to prevent him from serving time in prison for gun and tax offenses.

During a briefing on Friday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre chose not to talk about blanket pardons. However, she mentioned that President Biden is looking into potential executive clemency actions before his term ends. Jean-Pierre stated that the president is currently reviewing his options and more information will be provided in the future.

Before leaving office, President Biden pardoned his son, clearing him of any crimes he may have committed since 2014. This move is likely to prevent any potential investigations or charges against Hunter Biden by the Justice Department under the Trump administration.

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