On Sunday, Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.) countered the notion that President Biden should issue preemptive pardons for individuals who have criticized President-elect Trump, asserting that these individuals have not committed any wrongdoing.
“In my view, preemptive pardons suggest guilt,” Auchincloss remarked during an interview on NewsNation’s “The Hill Sunday” with Chris Stirewalt, responding to the idea of such pardons. He further emphasized that the individuals being considered for these pardons are not only innocent but also among the most competent public servants in recent years.
Biden faces scrutiny after pardoning his son despite political controversy.
He highlighted former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), who held the position of the third highest-ranking Republican in the House during the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and has emerged as a staunch critic of Trump.
“Liz Cheney is a prime example of someone who, while many of her Republican colleagues were catering to Trump and prioritizing him over the Constitution or the nation, had the courage to stand up for what was right,” Auchincloss noted. “I believe she doesn’t need, nor likely wants, a pardon; she deserves recognition for her actions,” he added.
Reports indicate that the White House is evaluating whether President Biden should offer preemptive protection to those critical of Trump, with discussions about pardons occurring among his senior team. Sources familiar with the situation have indicated that formal deliberations are underway within the White House counsel’s office.
Recently, Biden granted a full and unconditional pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, explaining that it was in response to what he termed a politically motivated prosecution. The White House later clarified that the pardon was issued due to Biden’s belief that Trump and the GOP would continue to pursue the matter regarding his son.
Auchincloss expressed his disapproval of Biden’s decision to pardon his son, suggesting that voters should elect Democrats in the 2026 midterms if they find his governing style unsatisfactory.
“The founders anticipated this kind of situation, which is why we have an independent judiciary and, more importantly, elections,” Auchincloss stated. “If the American people disapprove of the justice system’s thuggery under Donald Trump in the next two years, they should take note and ensure that Democrats regain control of Congress in 2026.”
