Washington: In a candid interaction with reporters, outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden firmly stated that he has no plans to pardon himself before leaving office on January 20, asserting he has done nothing wrong. Biden, who has already issued a pardon for his son Hunter Biden, hinted that additional pardons might be forthcoming but emphasized they would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
The speculation around a potential self-pardon gained momentum as Biden prepares to step down, leaving the White House for President-elect Donald Trump, whose own legal challenges have dominated headlines. Trump, recently convicted in a hush money case but spared jail time, mocked the idea of Biden pardoning himself, reiterating his view that Biden should face imprisonment.
“I Didn’t Do Anything Wrong”
Biden dismissed the notion of a self-pardon as unnecessary. “No, I’m not thinking about forgiving myself for anything. I didn’t do anything wrong,” Biden said when questioned about the possibility during a White House press briefing. He clarified that his focus in his final days is on ensuring a smooth transition while addressing lingering legal matters.
Hunter Biden and the Pardon Process
While Hunter Biden, the president’s son, has already received a pardon, Biden signaled the possibility of more pardons, contingent on evolving circumstances. He mentioned the potential influence of the rhetoric emanating from Trump and his supporters on the decision-making process.
“One is that it depends on some of the language and expectations that Trump broadcasts in the last couple of days here as to what he’s going to do,” Biden said, referencing the contentious atmosphere surrounding Trump’s legal troubles and his combative stance toward political rivals.
Criticism of Trump’s Retaliatory Tone
Biden criticized Trump’s public threats and alleged punitive behavior, suggesting that the president-elect’s rhetoric and intentions have contributed to a polarized environment. “The idea that he [Trump] would punish people for not adhering to what he thinks should be policy as related to his well-being is outrageous,” Biden stated.
Reinstating Transitional Norms
Biden has focused on restoring institutional norms that were disrupted during Trump’s first presidency. However, the idea of preemptive pardons for Trump’s critics remains contentious, with legal experts warning that such actions could test the limits of presidential authority.
Meta’s Decision on Fact-Checking Draws Biden’s Ire
Biden also took aim at Meta, formerly Facebook, for its decision to discontinue third-party fact-checking and replace it with community-based notes. He described the move as “contrary to American justice,” criticizing its potential to undermine truth and transparency.
“You think it doesn’t matter that they let it be printed? Things that are simply not true?” Biden asked rhetorically. He tied the decision to broader concerns about misinformation and its impact on democracy.
In Hindsight
As Biden’s presidency nears its conclusion, the nation remains divided, grappling with the legacy of a tumultuous transition period. The outgoing president’s comments underscore his resolve to exit with his reputation intact while addressing challenges posed by the incoming administration.
With just days left in office, Biden’s final actions, including potential additional pardons, are likely to be closely scrutinized as the U.S. prepares for a new chapter under the leadership of Donald Trump.
