Donald Trump, in his first official remarks as the 47th President, wasted no time criticizing Biden’s pardons, particularly targeting Liz Cheney. “Liz Cheney is a disaster,” Trump declared from the Oval Office. “She’s a crying lunatic… and very, very guilty of bad crimes.”
Legal analysts were quick to dissect the limitations of Biden’s pardons. Presidential clemency, they explained, typically applies only to specific offenses committed prior to the pardon. This leaves recipients vulnerable to prosecution for future crimes or new evidence. Former Arizona legislative candidate Josh Barnett elaborated on this on X, noting, “A pardon forgives specific past offenses, but if new crimes—like treason—are proven after the pardon, it doesn’t apply.”
The pardon for Gen. Mark Milley, a lightning rod for conservative criticism, was among the most contentious. Milley has faced accusations of undermining national security, particularly regarding reports of his communications with his Chinese counterpart during Trump’s first term. While the pardon may shield him from certain charges, critics argue it does not preclude new accusations if additional evidence comes to light.
Biden’s final act as president underscores the deeply divided state of American politics, where even pardons become a source of partisan conflict. Far from easing tensions, the clemency has set the stage for heightened battles over accountability and governance. As Republicans gear up to scrutinize the pardoned individuals, Biden’s controversial last-minute decisions are likely to fuel further political and legal drama in the months ahead.