Blumenthal Comments On Possible Biden Plan
Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) has drawn a firm line in the sand against the idea of “preemptive” pardons for members of the January 6th Committee and other prominent critics of Donald Trump.
Despite mounting concerns among Democrats that Trump’s incoming administration might wield the justice system as a weapon against political adversaries, Blumenthal remains steadfast in his belief that such pardons are both unnecessary and counterproductive.
The notion of these preemptive pardons has been circulating in Washington as a precautionary measure for figures like former Reps. Liz Cheney (R-WY) and Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), who served on the committee investigating the Capitol riots. Names like Dr. Anthony Fauci and Senator-elect Adam Schiff (D-CA) have also been floated as potential recipients. The underlying fear is clear: that Trump’s administration could pursue legal actions as acts of political vengeance.
Broad blanket preemptive pardons are a bad idea. Fully recognizing that DOJ & other federal law enforcement may be weaponized for retribution or intimidation, the way to stop a bully is to confront him, not run & hide. https://t.co/Nyu4DfJCfb
— Richard Blumenthal (@SenBlumenthal) December 8, 2024
Blumenthal, however, argues that issuing pardons before any charges are filed would send the wrong message. Speaking with CNN’s Jim Acosta, he stated, “It’s in some ways going to be perceived as an implicit acknowledgment of guilt.”
Drawing on his prosecutorial experience, Blumenthal emphasized the distinction between accusations and proven guilt, adding that no evidence has emerged to suggest wrongdoing by those who served on the January 6th Committee.
For Blumenthal, the solution lies not in preemptive pardons but in allowing the justice system to operate without interference. He proposed that any unjust charges brought against these individuals would likely fail in court, and that the ensuing acquittals could backfire against Trump.
Blumenthal even offered to personally contribute to a defense fund or serve on a pro bono legal team for those targeted, signaling his confidence in their innocence and dedication to the principle of justice.
Blumenthal reiterated his stance on social media, writing, “Broad blanket preemptive pardons are a bad idea. Fully recognizing that DOJ & other federal law enforcement may be weaponized for retribution or intimidation, the way to stop a bully is to confront him, not run & hide.”