Biden specifically named Fauci, Milley, and members of the January 6 Committee as individuals who had “served our nation with honor and distinction.” He argued that the pardons were not an acknowledgment of guilt but rather a safeguard against what he called politically driven attacks.
“The issuance of these pardons should not be mistaken as an acknowledgment that any individual engaged in any wrongdoing, nor should acceptance be misconstrued as an admission of guilt for any offense. Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment to our country.”
Among the most controversial figures on Biden’s pardon list is Michael Byrd, the Capitol Police officer who shot Ashli Babbitt during the January 6 protest. Critics point to video evidence showing Byrd firing at Babbitt, an unarmed Air Force veteran, as she attempted to climb through a broken window near a barricaded entryway. Many believe the shooting was unnecessary and avoidable, sparking outrage among conservatives.
Brian Lupo of The Gateway Pundit highlighted the contentious nature of Byrd’s actions, noting that the fatal shot was fired without a clear warning to Babbitt. For many, Byrd’s pardon represents an insult to Americans seeking accountability for the events of January 6.
Just hours after the news broke, Trump shared his reaction with NBC’s Kristen Welker in a message that left no room for interpretation.
“It is disgraceful. Many are guilty of MAJOR CRIMES!”
NEW: President-elect Trump texted me his reaction to President Biden's preemptive pardons of the Jan. 6 committee and witnesses, Anthony Fauci and Mark Milley.
“It is disgraceful. Many are guilty of MAJOR CRIMES! DJT”
The former president’s strong words indicate that he is unlikely to let these pardons go unanswered. Trump has long been a vocal critic of the January 6 Committee, Dr. Fauci, and General Milley, accusing them of overreach, corruption, and undermining American values.
Trump is not alone in his outrage. Patriots in Congress, like Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), have vowed to continue pursuing investigations into individuals like Dr. Fauci. Paul, a staunch critic of Fauci’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, has repeatedly promised to uncover the truth behind the former NIAID director’s decisions.
As the dust settles from Biden’s final act, Trump and his allies are preparing to take action. With a Republican-controlled House, Biden’s pardons may face increased scrutiny in the months ahead.
Biden’s pardons highlight the growing divide in America’s political landscape. While the president defends his actions as necessary to protect public servants, critics argue they undermine accountability and justice.
Trump’s response serves as a rallying cry for those demanding answers and accountability. As he gears up for his potential 2024 presidential run, expect these pardons to remain a focal point of his campaign.
Stay tuned as this story develops and Trump’s next moves come into focus.
