Biden Grants Pardons: Fauci, Milley, Jan 6

Sophie Wakehurst

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Post on Jan 21, 2025

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Biden Grants Pardons: Fauci, Milley, and the Jan 6th Insurrection – Fact or Fiction?

The recent claim that President Biden granted pardons to Dr. Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol insurrection has sparked widespread discussion and misinformation online. This article will dissect the veracity of these claims, examining the legal framework surrounding presidential pardons and the current political climate.

Understanding Presidential Pardons

The power of presidential pardons is enshrined in Article II, Section 2, Clause 1 of the United States Constitution. This clause grants the President the authority to "grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment." This power is broad, encompassing the ability to forgive both federal crimes and the punishments associated with them. However, it is important to note several key limitations:

• Federal Offenses Only: Presidential pardons apply only to federal crimes, not state-level offenses.
• Post-Conviction: A pardon is typically granted after a conviction, though it can be granted preemptively.
• No Admission of Guilt: A pardon does not imply guilt or innocence.

The Allegations: Fauci, Milley, and Jan 6th

The claims surrounding pardons for Dr. Fauci, General Milley, and those involved in the January 6th events are currently unsubstantiated. There has been no official announcement from the White House or any credible news source confirming these pardons. The spread of this misinformation highlights the ease with which false narratives can proliferate in the digital age.

Dr. Anthony Fauci

Dr. Fauci, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has been the subject of intense political scrutiny regarding his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. While facing criticism, no credible evidence suggests he has been charged with or convicted of any federal crime that would warrant a pardon.

General Mark Milley

General Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has also faced criticism, primarily regarding his conduct and statements during the Trump administration. Similar to Dr. Fauci, there are no publicly available records indicating any federal charges or convictions against him.

January 6th Insurrection Participants

The January 6th Capitol riot involved numerous individuals charged with a wide range of federal offenses. While President Biden has expressed empathy for those involved in minor offenses, he has also emphasized the need for accountability for those who committed violent acts or played significant roles in the insurrection. A blanket pardon for all participants is highly unlikely and would likely face significant legal and political challenges.

The Importance of Fact-Checking

The rapid spread of misinformation underscores the importance of critically evaluating information from online sources. Always verify information with credible news outlets and official government websites before accepting its validity. Relying on unsubstantiated claims can have serious consequences, fueling political division and eroding public trust.

Conclusion

At present, there is no credible evidence to support the claim that President Biden has granted pardons to Dr. Fauci, General Milley, or participants in the January 6th insurrection. The spread of this false information highlights the need for responsible information consumption and the importance of verifying information from reputable sources. The power of presidential pardons is a significant aspect of the American legal system, but it must be exercised within the bounds of the law and with consideration for the principles of justice and accountability.