In a striking use of presidential authority, President Joe Biden has pardoned Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House committee that investigated the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. The move, made during Biden’s final hours in office, is seen as a protective measure against possible retaliation by the incoming administration of Donald Trump.

The decision follows public warnings from Trump, who has compiled an “enemies list” of individuals he believes undermined his presidency. Trump has also indicated plans to appoint Cabinet members loyal to his narrative about the 2020 election and has vowed to target those involved in investigating his actions, including the insurrection at the Capitol.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, who served as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for nearly four decades, was a pivotal figure in the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fauci became a lightning rod for controversy during Trump’s administration, particularly after refusing to endorse Trump’s unfounded claims about the virus. Fauci’s role in implementing public health measures, including mask mandates, earned him widespread praise but also intense vitriol from Trump supporters. Despite his retirement in 2022, Fauci has remained a target of right-wing criticism.

Retired Gen. Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also found himself in Trump’s crosshairs. Milley, who played a crucial role during the chaotic aftermath of the 2020 election, publicly condemned Trump’s conduct, even referring to him as a “fascist.” His actions during and after the January 6 insurrection were instrumental in maintaining order, but they drew ire from Trump and his allies.

Members of the House committee that investigated the Capitol riot were similarly targeted in Trump’s rhetoric. The committee, which included bipartisan members, sought to hold Trump accountable for his role in inciting the attack.

President Biden’s pardons are being hailed by supporters as a courageous stand for democracy and justice in the face of potential authoritarian overreach. However, critics argue that the act could deepen political divisions and set a precedent for future administrations.

Credit: AP