President Joe Biden issued a series of pardons as he left the White House, including pardons for his siblings and their spouses. Biden cited the relentless attacks and threats his family had faced, attributing them to partisan politics. The pardons were part of a set of unprecedented actions by the Democrat, who also pardoned individuals such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6 Capitol attack.
Notably, none of the individuals pardoned had been charged with any crimes. Biden's decision was seen as a precaution against potential retribution from former President Donald Trump, who had hinted at using the Justice Department for political purposes during his campaign.
Previously, Biden had pardoned his son Hunter for tax and gun crimes, despite earlier promises not to do so. The recent pardons included Biden's brother James and his wife, Sara; his sister, Valerie, and her husband, John Owens; and his brother Francis. Biden clarified that the pardons did not imply any admission of guilt or wrongdoing on their part.
House Republicans had previously recommended the prosecution of Hunter and James Biden, alleging false statements made during a Republican impeachment inquiry. However, Democrats defended the transactions, pointing to bank records indicating repayment of a loan provided by Joe Biden to James.
Former President Trump criticized Biden's pardons, questioning the timing of the announcement. While presidents have previously pardoned family members for specific criminal convictions, Biden's pardons were seen as a preemptive measure to protect his family from potential legal actions.
Overall, Biden's pardons as he left office sparked debate and scrutiny, with critics and supporters offering differing perspectives on the motivations behind the decisions.
