Joe Biden's Extraordinary Powers As He Exits Office: Here's Who He 'Pardoned'

As the current US president prepares to leave office, one of their privileges comes in the media spotlight—the power of clemency. Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, is no exception. 

It is pertinent to note that the presidential pardon, enshrined in the US Constitution, grants the president the authority to forgive federal offenses, offering individuals a fresh start and sometimes generating significant public debate

This time around numerous eminent people were granted pardons such as Gen. Mark A. Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, the longtime government scientist, Furthermore, all the members of the bipartisan House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, including former Representative Liz Cheney, a Republican from Wyoming were also pardoned. 

Biden's approach to pardons has reflected his broader political philosophy. Unlike some predecessors who used clemency liberally, Biden has largely emphasized fairness, focusing on criminal justice reform and addressing systemic inequities. 

In the past, his administration has already pardoned several individuals, including those convicted of non-violent drug offenses, signaling a commitment to alleviating the consequences of America’s harsh sentencing policies.