Senator Joe Manchin, an independent from West Virginia, has suggested that President Biden should consider pardoning Donald Trump. This call came just after Biden issued a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, who has faced serious legal troubles. Manchin emphasized that such a move would promote fairness and balance in the political climate.
In an interview with CNN, Manchin shared his perspective, stating, “Just clear everything up. Why not pardon Donald Trump for his legal issues? It could bring some much-needed balance to the situation.” His comments come as Biden granted a pardon to Hunter Biden, who recently pleaded guilty to federal tax charges and was convicted on gun-related offenses. The president reasoned that Hunter was facing selective prosecution.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre defended Biden’s decision, arguing that Hunter’s legal issues stemmed from political motivations, a view echoed by Trump, who has said that the cases against him are also politically motivated.
With four separate legal cases against him, Trump has claimed his prosecution is rooted in political bias, particularly in the aftermath of the 2020 election. Manchin pointed out that Biden, who is preparing for the next four years as president, could benefit from clearing these legal hurdles from Trump’s path.
Manchin voiced concern that the recent pardon, which has drawn significant criticism, complicates Biden’s legacy. Several of Manchin’s fellow senators, including some from his own party, have openly criticized Biden’s choice to pardon his son, stating that it undermines public trust in the justice system. Senator Michael Bennet remarked that this decision prioritizes personal interests over duty, while Senator Gary Peters declared that no political figure’s family should receive special treatment under the law.
More criticism came from other Democrats who felt the pardon sets a troubling precedent. Some argued that it could hinder their credibility in future political battles. Governor Jared Polis of Colorado expressed that the pardon could harm Biden’s legacy, stating that it sends the message that no one is above the law.
In summary, the conversation around pardons has put a spotlight on issues of fairness, accountability, and the implications of political power, leaving many to question the future of trust in the American justice system.
