In a surprising turn of events during the final minutes of his presidency on January 20, 2025, President Joe Biden issued pardons to five of his family members, including his siblings James Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, and Francis Biden, alongside their spouses. This decision was reportedly made to shield them from potential politically charged investigations under the incoming administration.

In an official statement, President Biden explained his decision, citing “persistent attacks and threats” targeting his family. He emphasized that the pardons should not be viewed as an admission of guilt, stating, “These actions are to protect my loved ones from baseless persecution.”

Additionally, the outgoing president extended pardons to prominent public figures, including Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired General Mark Milley. These individuals had faced intense public and political scrutiny during their service. Biden described the move as an effort to ensure they were “protected from undue retaliation for their commitment to public service.”

However, the decision has sparked widespread debate, with critics questioning the ethical implications of granting such sweeping clemency. Some legal experts argue that these pardons risk undermining the impartiality of the justice system.

This final wave of clemency follows an earlier controversial pardon of Biden’s son, Hunter Biden, who faced federal charges related to tax offenses and gun violations. At the time, Biden remarked, “I believe in justice, but I also believe this case was deeply politicized, resulting in unfair treatment.”

As the new administration takes over, the legacy of these pardons and their potential legal ramifications remain a topic of intense public scrutiny.