As President Joe Biden’s term edges closer to its conclusion, speculation about a potential wave of pardons has begun to dominate political discourse. Some reports suggest Biden might use his clemency power to shield political allies, family members, or even contentious figures from legal trouble. Such a move would undoubtedly have far-reaching political implications, reshaping the dynamics between Democrats and Republicans and setting new precedents for future administrations—especially Donald Trump.
Here’s a deep dive into the political ideology, potential pros and cons for both parties, and the ramifications of Biden embracing a pardon spree.
Democrats: The Potential Benefits and Pitfalls
Pros
- Protecting Key Figures
Biden could shield high-profile individuals—like Hunter Biden or other party allies—from ongoing or future prosecutions. For Democrats, this would prevent damaging trials or scandals from derailing their political agenda or tainting their image as the 2024 election approaches.
- Precedent of Presidential Power
Pardons are a constitutionally granted power. By wielding it boldly, Biden could reinforce the executive branch’s authority, deterring future attempts to question its legitimacy.
- Defusing Political Retaliation
A preemptive pardon spree could be viewed as a defensive measure, ensuring Democrats and their supporters are protected from politically motivated investigations under a Republican administration.
Cons
- Accusations of Corruption
Critics could frame a pardon spree as a gross abuse of power, tarnishing Biden’s legacy and fueling Republican claims of Democratic corruption.
- Erosion of Public Trust
Many Americans already perceive Washington as a swamp of political favoritism. Mass pardons could reinforce this perception, alienating independent and moderate voters.
- Setting a Dangerous Precedent
By normalizing the use of pardons to protect political allies, Biden risks encouraging future presidents—Republican or Democrat—to do the same, further polarizing the nation.
Republicans: Opportunity or Crisis?
Pros
- A Political Boon
Republicans could capitalize on the narrative that Biden is corrupt and out of touch with the rule of law. A pardon spree would serve as potent campaign material, galvanizing conservative voters and moderates disillusioned with Democratic leadership.
- Opening the Door for Trump
If Biden leverages his pardon power to shield allies or family members, it could justify Donald Trump taking similar actions, especially for those involved in cases linked to January 6th or his administration.
- Solidifying the GOP’s Argument Against “Elites”
A mass pardon would bolster the Republican narrative of an elite class above the law, energizing their populist base and strengthening calls for systemic reform.
Cons
- Increased Partisan Warfare
While politically advantageous in the short term, a pardon spree could further erode bipartisan cooperation, making governance even more difficult for future Republican administrations.
- Risk of Appearing Hypocritical
If Republicans cheer on Trump for issuing similar pardons while lambasting Biden for doing so, they risk accusations of hypocrisy, which could alienate swing voters.
- Institutional Damage
A tit-for-tat escalation in pardon sprees could weaken respect for the justice system, making the GOP appear complicit in undermining institutional norms.
Implications for Donald Trump
For Donald Trump, Biden’s potential pardon spree would be a double-edged sword.
A New Standard for Presidential Pardons
If Biden shields allies, Trump could use this as a justification to pardon January 6th participants, political allies, and even himself should he face legal jeopardy. Biden’s actions would provide political cover, framing Trump’s potential pardons not as extraordinary but as part of a growing trend.
A Legacy-Reinforcing Opportunity
For Trump, the chance to pardon loyal supporters and punish perceived injustices would solidify his position as a champion of his base. It would further deepen his appeal among conservatives who view the justice system as politically biased.
Challenges Ahead
However, a potential Biden pardon spree could also backfire for Trump. It might amplify calls from moderates to restore integrity to the presidency, alienating those who see widespread pardons as a threat to accountability and justice.
The Bigger Picture: What’s at Stake?
A pardon spree by Biden would likely establish a new norm where outgoing presidents wield clemency powers with little restraint. The immediate effect would be to protect allies, but the long-term consequences could be far more dangerous.
Erosion of Accountability
If presidents consistently use pardons to shield allies, the justice system could lose credibility, further polarizing the public and diminishing trust in democratic institutions.
Precedent for Abuse
Future presidents, regardless of party, could see themselves as above the law, emboldened to pardon their way out of scandals and controversies without fear of backlash.
Increased Political Retaliation
Rather than diffusing tensions, mass pardons could escalate the cycle of revenge politics, with each administration investigating and punishing the other, knowing pardons are the safety net for the guilty.
Conclusion: A Perilous Path
Joe Biden’s potential pardon spree carries significant implications for both Democrats and Republicans, as well as for Donald Trump and future administrations. While it could shield political allies in the short term, the long-term risks of such a move are profound, threatening the integrity of the justice system and exacerbating partisan divisions.
For conservatives, Biden’s actions could represent a critical opportunity to expose hypocrisy, galvanize support, and pave the way for Donald Trump’s bold return. However, this path is fraught with challenges, as it risks entrenching a dangerous precedent that could undermine the very foundations of American democracy.
In this high-stakes political chess game, one thing is clear: the decisions made in the final days of Biden’s presidency will reverberate far beyond his tenure, shaping the future of American governance and justice.
