Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) has expressed her disapproval of President Biden's recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, and voiced growing apprehension regarding the possibility of additional preemptive pardons being granted by the current administration. These potential pardons reportedly include figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci, Senator-elect Adam Schiff (D-CA), and former Representative Liz Cheney (R-WY), ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration.
During an appearance on MSNBC, Klobuchar conveyed her discomfort with both the pardon granted to Hunter Biden and the prospect of preemptive pardons in general, particularly given her concerns about how President-elect Trump might wield similar powers. She emphasized her worry about potential actions Trump might take within the Justice Department.
Echoing Klobuchar's sentiments, Schiff has publicly stated his unwillingness to accept a pardon. Instead, he has advocated for reform of the presidential pardon process. Klobuchar herself supports this notion, suggesting the establishment of a review committee or advisory board to offer recommendations regarding pardons, rather than leaving the decision solely to the president's discretion, citing concerns about potential abuse of this power.
Biden's decision to pardon his son has drawn criticism from within the Democratic party, with some arguing it undermines his credibility and sets a concerning precedent for future administrations. Critics, including Colorado Governor Jared Polis, have expressed disappointment, suggesting the move prioritizes family over the principles of equal justice under the law. Polis, while acknowledging a father's instinct to protect his child, stressed that no individual, regardless of familial connections, should be exempt from legal consequences.
