President Joe Biden preemptively pardoned a number of people, including coronavirus response chief Anthony Fauci and members of the Jan. 6 riot investigation, to prevent “unwarranted… politically motivated prosecutions.”
“Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment,” Biden said.
Trump, who will be inaugurated later Monday, indicated he would take action against those who tried to hold him responsible for his supporters' attempt to overthrow the 2020 presidential vote.
Biden also preemptively pardoned retired General Mark Milley, who described Trump as a “fascist to the core” and “dangerous.”
“These public servants have served our nation with honor and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unwarranted and politically motivated prosecutions,” the White House statement said.
“The issuance of this pardon should not be mistaken as an admission that any individual has been involved in any wrongdoing, nor should the acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any crime.”
