abcnews.go.com
Biden Weighs Preemptive Pardons to Shield Allies from Trump
President Biden is considering issuing preemptive pardons to officials and allies fearing unjust targeting by President-elect Trump's administration, a novel use of presidential power to protect against potentially politically motivated investigations, even without charges.
- How does the consideration of preemptive pardons reflect concerns about the potential for politically motivated investigations and prosecutions under the incoming Trump administration?
- This action is driven by concerns that Trump and his allies, known for their stated desire for retribution against political opponents, may initiate politically motivated investigations. These investigations could be financially and reputationally damaging, even without leading to convictions. Biden's team is exploring this preemptive measure to safeguard individuals from such attacks.
- What are the potential legal and political ramifications of President Biden issuing preemptive pardons to protect his allies from potential future prosecutions by the Trump administration?
- President Biden is considering issuing preemptive pardons to officials and allies he fears could be targeted by President-elect Trump's administration. This unprecedented move aims to protect individuals from potentially unjust investigations, even if no charges are filed. The White House lawyers are leading the discussions, and while no decisions have been made, the possibility is under serious consideration.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of President Biden utilizing the pardon power in this unprecedented manner, considering its impact on the norms and principles of the justice system and the potential for future misuse?
- The potential for this action to set a precedent for future administrations is a key concern. While absolute, the president's pardon power has rarely been used in this way before. Issuing preemptive pardons could be perceived as admitting guilt by those pardoned, even if no wrongdoing occurred. Furthermore, it opens the possibility that this tactic could be abused by future administrations.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the story primarily around the risk and novelty of the situation, emphasizing the potential political backlash and legal implications of Biden issuing preemptive pardons. This framing emphasizes the negative aspects and uncertainties of such a move, rather than exploring potential benefits or justifications.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, although terms like "sweeping pardons," "risky use of power," and "exacting retribution" carry a certain weight and suggest a negative connotation. While accurate descriptions, they could be replaced with more neutral phrasing like "broad pardons," "unconventional use of power," and "seeking accountability."
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the potential for preemptive pardons and the political ramifications, but it omits discussion of potential legal challenges or precedents that might limit the scope of such pardons. It also doesn't explore in detail the potential negative consequences of such a widespread use of pardons, beyond the concerns mentioned by some Biden aides. The lack of diverse perspectives from legal scholars or constitutional law experts on the matter is noticeable.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the situation as a choice between doing nothing and issuing sweeping pardons. It doesn't fully explore alternative approaches, such as targeted pardons or other legal protections that could address concerns without the same potential risks and political fallout.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses President Biden considering preemptive pardons for officials and allies who might face unjust targeting by the incoming Trump administration. This action aims to protect individuals from politically motivated prosecutions, thereby upholding the principles of justice and fair legal processes. The potential for abuse of power by the incoming administration necessitates this preemptive measure to safeguard against undermining the rule of law and democratic institutions.