Outgoing US President Joe Biden has issued preemptive pardons to Dr Anthony Fauci, General Mark Milley, and members of the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot.
Biden stated the move was intended to prevent “unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions” under the incoming Trump administration.
“Our nation owes these public servants a debt of gratitude for their tireless commitment.” He emphasised that the pardons were not an acknowledgment of any wrongdoing.
Dr Fauci, who led the US Covid response, had been a frequent target of criticism from Trump during the pandemic.
Expressing relief, Fauci said he was “truly appreciative” of Biden’s action and reiterated his innocence.
“Let me be perfectly clear, I have committed no crime and there are no possible grounds for any allegation or threat of criminal investigation or prosecution of me,” he stated.
General Milley, a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also thanked Biden, citing concerns about potential retribution for his outspoken criticism of Trump.
Milley, 66, said he wished to avoid placing undue stress on his family and colleagues.
“I do not want to put my family, my friends, and those with whom I served through the resulting distraction, expense, and anxiety,” he said.
The pardons extend to all members and staff of the January 6 investigation committee, as well as officers who testified.
