In a bold move during his last moments in office, President Joe Biden used his executive clemency power to shield his family and several high-profile individuals from potential legal actions by Donald Trump. The pardons, announced on Monday, included five members of Biden’s family, as well as figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Representative Liz Cheney, and General Mark Milley. Biden’s decision was driven by concerns over what he called “baseless and politically motivated investigations” that could harm the lives and reputations of those targeted. In a statement, he emphasized his belief in the rule of law but noted that these were “exceptional circumstances” requiring action. Among those pardoned were Biden’s brothers, James and Francis Biden, his sister Valerie Biden Owens, and her husband, John Owens. The president also extended clemency to members of the bipartisan House committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol attack, along with the police officers who testified during the inquiry. This unprecedented use of presidential pardons highlights the growing tensions between Biden and Trump, with Biden framing his actions as a necessary defense against potential abuses of power. While no other president has issued such broad pre-emptive pardons, Biden’s move underscores the high stakes of the political divide in the U.S. As the nation watches this historic moment unfold, the debate over the role of executive clemency in safeguarding democracy continues to take center stage.