More than 20% of modern presidents grant clemency on their last day. President Joe Biden did the same, giving a rare wave of relief. This article presents the full list of Biden pardons, backed by reports from NBC New York and ABC News. It explains who was pardoned and why it’s important.
On Inauguration Day, Biden pardoned close relatives and public servants. This included Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired Gen. Mark Milley. He also pardoned members and staff of the House Jan. 6 Committee.
The family pardons covered “any nonviolent offenses” from January 1, 2014, to the pardon date. Biden said this move was in response to “unrelenting attacks and threats.” He noted that accepting a pardon does not mean admitting guilt.
This article provides a clear, easy-to-read list of Biden’s pardons. It connects these pardons to the earlier pardon of Hunter Biden in December. Each name and scope is listed for quick reference.
For a quick guide to Biden’s pardons, this section is a good start. The next sections will explain each pardon, link them to the Constitution’s clemency power, and show their place in the presidential pardons list.
Overview of President Biden’s Final-Day Pardons and Why They Matter
In the last hours of his term, President Biden’s pardons caught everyone’s attention. If you’re looking for the latest on presidential pardons or wondering who Biden pardoned today, you’re in the right place. We provide a detailed and accurate summary here, linking each action to the larger list of pardons.
Context: Final minutes of the presidency on Inauguration Day
ABC News and NBC New York reported that these pardons happened during inauguration events. A warrant from Jan. 19 outlined the timing and scope, focusing on nonviolent federal crimes. Biden mentioned his family faced relentless attacks and threats, calling it “the worst kind of partisan politics.”
This timing made Biden’s pardons stand out. As the power transfer happened, people eagerly awaited updates. These updates shaped the presidential pardons list and informed us about who Biden pardoned today.
Preemptive pardons and their constitutional basis
Preemptive clemency is based on the Constitution’s pardon power. A president can offer relief before charges are filed, as history shows. In this case, no public servants named by the White House had been charged yet.
This approach is why Biden’s pardons are listed early in any roundup of pardons from that day. It also shows how the law protects against future or politicized charges.
How this roundup post is organized for readers
This guide is structured for easy reading. It first tells you who Biden pardoned today. Then, it explains the legal basis and reasons for the pardons, including those for family and public servants.
Next, it provides totals to update the presidential pardons list. It also places these actions within the context of earlier clemency decisions. This helps readers understand the full picture of presidential pardons and their impact.
Who Did Biden Pardon on His Last Day?
People looking for who did biden pardon and who did joe biden pardon on his last day will find a clear list. The list includes close family, senior public servants, and members of the House Jan. 6 panel. This focus is part of the presidential pardons list today.
Immediate family and in-laws: James, Sara, Valerie, John Owens, and Francis
Five relatives got pardoned early: James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden. These names together caught a lot of attention. The pardons were for nonviolent crimes within a certain time frame.
Public servants: Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired Gen. Mark Milley
Dr. Anthony Fauci, former NIAID director and White House adviser, was pardoned. So was retired Gen. Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Both faced a lot of political pressure, as noted in reports on who did joe biden pardon.
Jan. 6 Committee members and staff, including Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney
Members and staff of the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack were pardoned. This includes Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney. These pardons were seen as preemptive measures. They were part of the final-day pardons, as reported by those tracking biden pardons today.
| Category | Names | Roles | Context Cited in Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Family | James B. Biden; Francis W. Biden | President’s brothers | Listed together in final-day filings answering who did biden pardon |
| In-Laws | Sara Jones Biden; Valerie Biden Owens; John T. Owens | Spouse of James; Sister; Brother-in-law | Highlighted in reports on biden pardons today |
| Public Servants | Dr. Anthony Fauci; Gen. Mark A. Milley (Ret.) | NIAID Director; Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff | Frequently noted in pieces asking who did joe biden pardon |
| Jan. 6 Committee | Rep. Bennie Thompson; Rep. Liz Cheney; Committee staff | Chair; Vice Chair; Investigative staff | Included in the presidential pardons list today as preemptive recipients |
Preemptive Pardons for Biden’s Family Explained
In the final hours, the White House clarified a question: did biden pardon his family? The answer lies in biden preemptive pardons. These pardons were made to avoid political fights and stay within the law. They follow a long tradition, but the specifics are important.
Names covered: James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, Francis W. Biden
The warrant names five relatives: James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden. Their inclusion sparked interest in biden pardons family. Yet, the document is specific and limited.
Statement from President Biden on partisan attacks and threats
In his statement, the president said this was a move to protect himself. He called it a response to relentless attacks and threats. He believed these were politically motivated and harmful to safety, finances, and reputations.
Scope and timeframe: “Any nonviolent offenses” from Jan. 1, 2014 through the date of the pardon
The text applies to any nonviolent offenses against the U.S. from January 1, 2014, to the pardon date. This scope answers questions about biden pardons family. It sets a clear time frame and limits it to federal, nonviolent crimes.
Legal nuance: Acceptance isn’t an admission of guilt
The warrant makes a key point: accepting clemency doesn’t mean you’re guilty. This legal detail counters claims that a pardon is a confession. It shows how biden preemptive pardons act as a shield, not proof of wrongdoing. This clarifies the debate around did biden pardon his family and why did biden pardon his family.
Did Biden Pardon His Family? What the White House Said
The White House confirmed a biden pardon for immediate family and in-laws on the final day. This move was seen as a defensive step against partisan probes. It falls under the constitutional clemency power, often discussed as a joe biden pardon or, in shorthand, bidens pardon.
Rationale: Protecting Family Amid Investigations
Advisers said the goal was to spare relatives from open-ended inquiries that drain time and money. The President argued that investigations can inflict harm even when no charges are filed. In that context, the joe biden pardon for family members was presented as a shield, not a shortcut.
Asked bluntly, did biden pardon his family, aides pointed to escalating threats and legal fees. They said the bidens pardon aimed to prevent reputational damage while honoring the rule of law.
Reaction: GOP Criticism and Claims of “Confession” Rebutted
Republicans moved fast to condemn the decision. House Oversight Chair James Comer urged incoming Attorney General Pam Bondi to take action, calling it a confession. The White House countered that a biden pardon is not an admission of guilt and does not imply wrongdoing.
Officials stressed that clemency can be preemptive under the Constitution. They argued that, far from conceding fault, the joe biden pardon reflected confidence in institutions despite political crossfire.
Attorney Response for James and Sara Biden
Attorney Paul Fishman, speaking for James and Sara Biden, said they did not seek clemency because they have not committed crimes. He added they accepted for the reasons the President described, including protection from partisan attacks.
For readers weighing did biden pardon his family against the legal record, the statement sought to draw a line: acceptance is not confession. In that view, the bidens pardon was a defensive measure consistent with long-standing clemency practice.
Dr. Anthony Fauci Pardon: What It Covers and Why It Was Issued
Dr. Anthony Fauci got a pardon on the president’s last day in office. This move led to many questions, like did biden pardon fauci and why did biden pardon fauci. The pardon protects Fauci from possible federal charges related to his work, even though no charges were filed.
Public service background
Fauci worked at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for almost 40 years. He was also President Joe Biden’s chief medical adviser until 2022. He played a key role in fighting HIV/AIDS, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19, working closely with the CDC and FDA.
Preemptive nature amid threats and targeting
The pardon was a protective measure for officials facing threats and political attacks after the pandemic. It was given before any charges were brought, showing it was a preventive action. The goal was to shield public servants from future legal troubles for actions taken in good faith.
Addressing popular searches
Those asking did biden pardon fauci can say yes, the pardon was given on the last day. The White House said it was to protect public servants from intimidation during COVID-19. In essence, it ensures that decisions made during emergencies are not later criminalized.
Key takeaway: The pardon aims to protect officials during national health crises. It provides a shield and answers questions without suggesting any wrongdoing.
Retired Gen. Mark Milley’s Pardon and the Jan. 6 Context

On the final day, biden pardoned retired Gen. Mark Milley, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This move caught everyone’s attention. Milley had spoken out against Donald Trump’s actions on Jan. 6.
The pardon was part of a pattern by biden to protect public servants. It aimed to shield them from threats and political backlash.
None of the officials, including Milley, were charged with crimes at the time. This shows the pardon’s purpose was to protect them. For those wondering who did biden pardon today, Milley is a key figure. His role during the transition and the Capitol attack scrutiny made him stand out.
The pardon was seen as a way to stop harassment. It also aimed to prevent using legal threats against national security leaders. By pardoning figures like Milley, biden focused on keeping the government stable.
As news spread, many searched for who did biden pardon today. Milley’s inclusion highlighted the pardon’s role in protecting those who served in tough times. The pardon was given without suggesting guilt, showing it was a preventive measure.
Jan. 6 Committee Members and Staff: Pardons Amid Political Pressure
On the final day, President Biden pardoned members and staff of the House Jan. 6 Committee. Reporters said these pardons were a preemptive move to protect public servants. They faced threats because of their work. These actions were part of a larger clemency effort and a heated political moment.
Leaders: Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney
Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney led the panel. A liz cheney pardon was part of the pardons, even though no one was charged. These pardons showed Biden’s commitment to safety and the rule of law during a tense time.
Committee’s Final Report and Findings Related to 2020 Election
The committee worked for 18 months, reviewing records and security footage. Their report showed a plan to overturn the 2020 election and a failure to act during the attack. This report was seen alongside the pardons, showing how accountability and clemency policies moved together.
Preemptive Pardons as Protection for Public Servants
ABC News said the pardons were a way to protect public servants under pressure. NBC New York noted none were charged, showing a preventive aim. A liz cheney pardon was seen as part of a broader effort to deter intimidation.
| Recipient Group | Role on Jan. 6 Committee | Nature of Clemency | Rationale Cited in Coverage | Context Within Presidential Pardons List Today |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaders (Bennie Thompson, Liz Cheney) | Chair and Vice Chair overseeing hearings and report | Preemptive protections | Threats, harassment, and political targeting | Highlighted as high-profile entries among biden pardons |
| Investigative Staff | Research, deposition prep, and evidence review | Preemptive protections | Safety and continuity of public service | Grouped under biden preemptive pardons for public servants |
| Counsel and Advisors | Legal analysis and drafting the final report | Preemptive protections | Prevent chilling effects on future inquiries | Cataloged to show scope within the presidential pardons list today |
How Many People Did Biden Pardon on His Last Day?
The final-day count includes both named individuals and groups covered by one warrant. People asking how many people did biden pardon should know it includes family and public-service leaders. Committee staff are counted by category, not a fixed number.
Family members and spouses covered in a single action
One warrant named five relatives: James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden. This action accounts for five individuals in one document. It’s on every credible biden pardon list.
Public officials and staff protected by preemptive pardons
Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired Gen. Mark Milley were covered by separate warrants. The House Jan. 6 Committee members and staff were also protected. The exact staff total was not given, but the intent was clear.
Placing the final-day action in context with earlier clemency
The final-day wave followed earlier clemency, including a December pardon for Hunter Biden. When people ask how many people did biden pardon versus how many people has biden pardoned overall, they should consider both. Any biden pardon list that aims to be complete will include both the family warrant and the set of preemptive pardons for public servants.
| Category | Named Individuals | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Warrant | James B. Biden; Sara Jones Biden; Valerie Biden Owens; John T. Owens; Francis W. Biden | Single preemptive action | Five covered together; key line item for how many people did biden pardon |
| Public-Service Leaders | Dr. Anthony Fauci; Gen. Mark A. Milley (Ret.) | Individual preemptive actions | Issued amid threats and political targeting; none charged at time of grant |
| Jan. 6 Committee | Rep. Bennie Thompson; Rep. Liz Cheney; members and staff | Category-based preemptive action | Staff total not itemized; expands the count beyond named figures on the biden pardon list |
| Earlier Clemency | Hunter Biden | Prior pardon | Important for context when assessing how many people has biden pardoned overall |
Earlier Biden Clemency: Hunter Biden and Prior Actions
In early December, President Joe Biden pardoned his son, Hunter Biden. This was for tax evasion and a federal gun case. The move came after months of saying he wouldn’t pardon his son.
He explained it as following the law. He also talked about how long investigations can hurt families.
This action is part of the president’s clemency decisions. It shows how he balances legal matters, prosecutorial choices, and public interest. This is within the context of the joe biden pardons record.
Clemency covers federal and military cases, like drug crimes and fraud. This helps us understand why the biden pardons list includes different types of cases. It shows patterns across different administrations.
The December pardon gives insight into the president’s decision-making. It shows how urgency, timing, and legal risks play a role. The White House said these choices are based on the Constitution and consider real-world impacts.
Comprehensive Presidential Pardons List Today: Legacy and Earlier Cases

The list of presidential pardons today shows a long history, not just recent actions. To fully understand, we must look at both the big moments and the quiet acts that changed lives. This section connects these parts to make the list clear.
Notable historic pardons and commutations under Biden before the final day
Before the last day, the administration focused on pardons for nonviolent crimes and some military cases. These actions, including Hunter Biden’s pardon, set the stage for the list. They show how the list is both meaningful and specific.
Many pardons were for financial crimes and drug offenses where the punishment was too harsh. Others fixed problems from military service. Each case adds to the list’s story of fairness and detail.
Representative names and offenses from federal and military jurisdictions
Examples show the variety in the list today, across different places and laws. They highlight how the biden pardon list covers many areas and laws.
| Name | Jurisdiction | Offense | Type | Context |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nina Simona Allen | Middle District of Alabama | Conspiracy to defraud financial institutions | Pardon | Nonviolent financial case from a federal district court |
| Kelsie Lynn Becklin | District of Minnesota | Misprision of a felony | Pardon | Low-level involvement; emphasized rehabilitation |
| Duran Arthur Brown | Northern District of Ohio | Conspiracy to commit wire fraud | Pardon | Financial misconduct with limited public safety risk |
| Rosetta Jean Davis | Eastern District of Washington | Drug distribution | Commutation | Sentence relief consistent with drug policy reforms |
| Honi Lori Moore | District of Wyoming | Drug distribution | Commutation | Proportionality review of nonviolent conduct |
| Audrey Diane Simon | District of Nebraska | Conspiracy to commit bank fraud | Pardon | Financial offense with strong post-conviction record |
| Michael Gary Pelletier | District of Maine | Bank theft | Pardon | Rehabilitation documented over many years |
| Gregory S. Ekman | U.S. Air Force | Wrongful use of cocaine | Pardon | Military justice case with service-related collateral impacts |
| Paul John Garcia | U.S. Navy | False documents and theft of government property | Pardon | Military court judgment reviewed for clemency factors |
How “list of presidential pardons” is compiled and verified
The list starts with official announcements and checks with the Department of Justice. Editors match names, case numbers, and places to ensure accuracy. This keeps the list up to date.
For those tracking the biden pardon list, it’s about matching the latest with earlier actions. Clear records and confirmations keep the archive right over time.
Names and Cases Often Searched: Who Did Joe Biden Pardon?
Many people wonder who joe biden pardoned and who he pardoned in his last wave. The names searched are often close family and well-known public figures. These cases are part of a larger effort for biden preemptive pardons. This is to protect against legal challenges without admitting guilt.
Family
The list of family members includes James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden. They all got one blanket pardon for nonviolent crimes from January 1, 2014, to the effective date. This shows the White House’s stance that accepting a pardon doesn’t mean you’re admitting to anything wrong.
Public service figures
Dr. Anthony Fauci and retired Gen. Mark A. Milley are also on the list. So are members and staff of the House Jan. 6 Committee, led by Rep. Bennie Thompson and Rep. Liz Cheney. Reports say these individuals were not charged. This highlights how biden preemptive pardons act as a defense for those targeted for their official duties.
Clarifying rumors
There’s a lot of curiosity about whether joe biden pardoned himself. But, reports show he did not pardon himself. For a detailed look at earlier pardons, check out this clemency list overview. These details help clear up misconceptions and show how biden’s pardons align with constitutional powers.
Conclusion
On his last day, President Joe Biden signed a set of pardons. These pardons covered five family members for nonviolent crimes. They also protected high-profile public servants.
NBC New York reported that Dr. Anthony Fauci and others were targeted. Yet, they faced no charges. These pardons highlight a key part of Biden’s presidency.
ABC News said Biden wanted to protect people from attacks and harm. The White House noted that accepting a pardon doesn’t mean someone is guilty. This is important for understanding the pardons’ purpose.
These pardons come after Biden pardoned his son Hunter in December. They show Biden’s focus on protecting family and public servants. This approach stands out in a time of political tension.
The pardons add to the biden pardons list, showing Biden’s commitment. They were meant to prevent legal and political intimidation. In the end, these pardons make a statement about duty and the challenges of public life.
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