Biden issues final preemptive pardons covering Fauci Milley Jan. 6 committee members

In his final full day in office, President Biden issues a broad set of preemptive pardons for individuals he believes face politically motivated prosecution under the incoming Trump administration. Recipients include Dr. Anthony Fauci, former NIAID director and COVID adviser. The list includes General Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. It also includes members of the January 6th Select Committee, Representatives Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger, Bennie Thompson, and others. Biden also pardons members of his family preemptively. Biden defends the pardons as necessary given Trump's repeated threats to investigate his political opponents. Critics argue the pardons undermine the justice system. Supporters call them essential protection for those who served the public interest.