John Dean urges President Biden to issue broad pardons as a countermeasure against potential Trump-led retribution.
At a Glance
- Biden pardoned his son, Hunter, on gun and tax charges.
- John Dean urges Biden to issue broad pardons to prevent Trump retaliation.
- Critics debate the implications of Hunter Biden’s pardon.
- The pardon’s scope reminds experts of Nixon’s pardon by Gerald Ford.
- Legal experts question the unusual scope and impact of this pardon.
Hunter Biden’s Pardon Sparks Debate
President Biden’s decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, for gun and tax-related charges has stirred significant debate across the political spectrum. The pardon is full and unconditional, covering potential charges from 2014 to 2024. Critics raise concerns about its implications and potential precedents it could set for future presidential pardons. Some argue it might set the stage for former President Trump to pardon his supporters involved in various incidents, like the January 6 Capitol attack.
President Biden cited selective prosecution and political pressure as reasons for the pardon, emphasizing what he regards as a miscarriage of justice. Hunter Biden’s case drew comparisons to previous high-profile pardons, particularly President Gerald Ford’s pardon of Richard Nixon. Margaret Love, the U.S. pardon attorney from 1990-1997, described the pardon as unprecedented in its breadth, covering all potential federal crimes during the specified period.
"…The most broad pardon since Watergate." House Ways & Means Committee Chairman @RepJasonSmith reacts to Joe Biden’s pardon of his son Hunter with @dagenmcdowell @BrianBrenberg pic.twitter.com/5TmfGM7Tl7
— The Bottom Line (@BottomLineFBN) December 3, 2024
John Dean’s Call for Broader Pardons
John Dean, a key figure in the Watergate scandal, has urged President Biden to issue broad pardons beyond his son. Dean suggests these pardons could preempt any retaliatory actions Trump may take against his opponents. Dean’s recommendation stems from his extensive experience with political retribution, emphasizing the need to prevent a cycle of revenge that could destabilize American politics.
“Biden should keep going with his pardons: Trump, Jack Smith & team, Mueller & team, and a blanket pardon for all on Trump’s enemies list for any and all political statements before December 25, 2024! Merry Christmas” – John Dean
Dean proposes a “blanket pardon” strategy that would extend to DOJ officials who investigated Trump, hoping to mitigate the potential risks of retaliation. Although Trump has hinted at prosecuting those who investigated him, he has softened his rhetoric at times. By applying his Watergate experience, Dean seeks to influence a resolution that prevents further political division.
Responses and Criticism
The pardon’s scope and its potential repercussions have drawn mixed reactions from legal experts and political analysts. Mark Osler, a law professor and pardon expert, emphasized its unusual nature, noting the unprecedented breadth. Some, like attorney Jonathan Turley, argue it may have damaged President Biden’s credibility, suggesting strategic missteps.
Critics, including Donald Trump, label the pardon an “abuse and miscarriage of justice.” Trump’s former national security adviser, John Bolton, argued that Biden’s actions could empower Trump to pardon his allies. Despite the controversy, President Biden maintains his belief in the justice system, underscoring the political influences at play in his decision.
Sources:
- Hunter Biden pardon ‘unprecedented’ and ‘very unusual,’ experts say
- Watergate lawyer encourages Biden to pardon everyone on Trump’s ‘enemies list’
