Following President Biden’s decision to pardon his son, Hunter, the focus now to a potential pardon for Donald Trump. It’s important to clarify that Trump does not require a pardon from Biden, nor does he need a superficial act of clemency for actions previously deemed unlawful by others.
Trump has secured the backing, votes, and confidence of a majority of Americans. As he takes office, federal actions against him cannot occur, as confirmed by the Department of Justice and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Biden’s potential Trump pardon sparks a national debate on reconciliation
Thus, a pardon from Biden would hold no substantial legal implications. There would be no practical benefits gained, nor any goodwill accrued from such a gesture. There is no Democratic successor who could capitalize on the advantages of this act. Nonetheless, such a move would carry symbolic weight for the country and reflect on Biden’s character.
Some historians predict that Biden’s presidency will be viewed positively over time. He is recognized as a leader who guided the nation through a severe global pandemic and stabilized an economy on the verge of collapse. His efforts toward environmental protection, infrastructure development, and social programs may have lasting impact, provided they are not reversed by future administrations.
Despite occasional gaffes, Biden has a long history of dedicated public service and has gained recognition as a global statesman. However, personal struggles and political pressures led him to refrain from pursuing a second term and to reluctantly endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidency.
This pivotal choice may be overshadowed by what many view as a disappointing outcome, impacting his legacy of integrity, wise decision-making, and patriotic service. There exists a constitutional justification for Biden to pardon Trump, but a deeper motivation lies in Biden’s Christian beliefs and love for America—both of which emphasize forgiveness and healing.
Consequently, granting a pardon to Trump would align with these core values. In his final term, Biden finds himself a lame duck, both literally and figuratively. Yet, he would gain respect by transcending partisanship to pardon a fierce political opponent.
If he opts to pardon Trump, his decision must stem from genuine intentions rather than political expediency. It should rise above the current political, social, and cultural divides. Echoing Abraham Lincoln’s sentiments, it must resonate with “the better angels of our nature.”
The practice of presidential pardons in America is deeply rooted in the belief that mercy can contribute to the greater good. The Founding Fathers wisely entrusted the president with the power of clemency, recognizing its potential to heal a fractured nation.
In 1868, President Andrew Johnson pardoned Jefferson Davis, the Confederacy’s president, after the nation had endured a devastating civil war. This act of clemency aimed to foster reconciliation in a country scarred by division.
Similarly, President Gerald Ford’s 1974 pardon of Richard Nixon facilitated national healing after the Watergate scandal. Ford recognized that pursuing legal action against Nixon would only exacerbate divisions and divert attention from more pressing national issues.
Trump has faced more legal scrutiny than perhaps any other American figure. While comparisons to Jefferson Davis or Richard Nixon may be unwarranted, Trump’s legal troubles have inflicted national trauma and financial burdens, paralyzing the country for nearly four years and contributing to a historically divided society.
America is grounded in Judeo-Christian values, which emphasize mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Alexander Hamilton, in Federalist No. 74, highlighted the need for a president with the authority to show mercy, as justice alone does not always fulfill the highest governmental objectives.
Both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament stress the importance of balancing justice with compassion. The Book of Micah instructs us “to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Biden’s pardon of Trump would not serve Trump’s interests nor enhance Biden’s standing. Rather, it would represent an act of national nobility benefiting everyone. Even if seen as symbolic, it would remind the nation that politics should not solely define the country, especially at a time when reconciliation is desperately needed.
If Biden upholds these principles, pardoning Trump would exemplify the enduring values that make America truly great. Adonis Hoffman writes about business, law, and policy, having served in senior positions in the U.S. House of Representatives and at the FCC.
