GOP lawmakers pledge to investigate Biden’s last-minute pardons: ‘Call them all before Congress’
Republican lawmakers are up in arms over President Biden’s last-minute decision to pardon several allies of former President Trump, who were facing potential retribution from the incoming administration. The pardons were issued just hours before Biden officially took office, sparking outrage and calls for further investigation.
Rep. Chip Roy of Texas took to social media to express his disbelief, suggesting that the pardons indicated guilt on the part of the recipients. He called for a congressional inquiry to uncover the truth behind the pardons and threatened to challenge their validity if necessary.
Among those granted preemptive pardons were Dr. Anthony Fauci, retired Gen. Mark Milley, and members of the House select committee on the Jan. 6 Capitol attack. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, now the chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, vowed to investigate Fauci’s actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, accusing him of mismanagement.
Sen. Paul’s commitment to uncovering the truth was echoed by Rep. Andrew Clyde of Georgia, who labeled the Biden administration as the most corrupt in history. Rep. Doug LaMalfa of California also questioned the motives behind the last-minute pardons, suggesting that they were an attempt to cover up criminal activity.
On the other side of the aisle, Rep. Brendan Boyle of Pennsylvania praised Biden’s decision to grant the pardons, accusing Trump of abusing his power and threatening political opponents. He commended the president for protecting public servants who had worked tirelessly to defend democracy.
Former President Trump, who had previously threatened retribution against his critics, had also issued pardons for his allies like Paul Manafort and Michael Flynn. However, unlike Biden’s latest decision, these pardons were issued after charges had been brought by the Department of Justice.
While preemptive pardons are not uncommon, they have sparked controversy in this instance. Former President Gerald Ford famously pardoned Richard Nixon after the Watergate scandal, setting a precedent for future administrations. Fauci and Milley both expressed gratitude for Biden’s decision, citing the distress caused by politically motivated threats of investigation and prosecution.
As the dust settles on Biden’s last-minute pardons, Republican lawmakers are vowing to investigate further and hold those involved accountable. The political landscape remains tense as the new administration takes office, with both sides preparing for a new chapter in American politics.
