Biden and Trump Issue Controversial Pardons in Final Presidential Acts

Biden pardons family members and officials, while Trump grants clemency to January 6 participants, raising constitutional and ethical concerns.

Outgoing President Joe Biden issued preemptive pardons to five family members, including his brother James and sister Valerie, as well as Dr. Anthony Fauci, Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the January 6 select committee.
President Trump granted sweeping pardons to individuals convicted of offenses related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, framing it as a step toward national reconciliation.
Critics argue Biden's family pardons lack justification, with some viewing them as a shield against potential politically motivated investigations or charges.
Legal experts highlight the unprecedented nature of both Biden’s and Trump’s actions, questioning whether preemptive pardons align with the original intent of the Constitution's pardon power.
Calls for constitutional reform to limit presidential pardon powers have resurfaced, with some advocating for Congress to assume responsibility for broader amnesties.