Clinton Warns Biden on Pardons for Hillary During Trump Probe

In the midst of escalating political tensions, former President Bill Clinton has raised eyebrows by advising President Joe Biden against the preemptive pardoning of Hillary Clinton, as investigations into her past rise amid Trump-fueled speculation. Clinton asserts such charges would be baseless, emphasizing an avoidance of political fallout. This advice comes as Biden’s controversial pardon of his son, Hunter, ignites fierce criticism from his political opponents.

Political Landscape and Pardons

Bill Clinton defended President Biden’s decision to pardon Hunter Biden, despite acknowledging that it has created complications for Biden. Clinton expressed that the president had reason to believe that the circumstances surrounding Hunter’s offenses would result in disproportionately severe consequences, given his familial connection to the presidency. “I wish he hadn’t said he wasn’t going to do it,” Clinton stated, underscoring the weakening of Biden’s stance by contradicting his earlier statements regarding pardons.

Biden’s full and unconditional pardon for Hunter addressed lingering legal issues, including charges of illegally purchasing a firearm and evading taxes. While the decision attracted criticism from political opponents on both sides, Clinton highlighted that Hunter likely faced harsher scrutiny due to his status as the President’s son.

Controversy and Criticism

The political ramifications of the pardon are vast. Critics argue that Biden’s actions may set a troubling precedent, offering former President Trump room to justify potential pardons for his allies, especially related to the January 6th Capitol breach. The criticism suggests that Biden’s moves might weaken the Democratic stance on upholding the rule of law, drawing Trump into the narrative, who has openly criticized Hunter Biden’s pardon.

Statement from President Clinton and Secretary Clinton pic.twitter.com/R7tYMFWbsu

— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) July 21, 2024

Trump has questioned whether Biden’s willingness to pardon would extend to participants in the January 6 riots, highlighting an evolving debate on the limits and implications of executive pardons. On the other hand, Clinton suggests a broader discussion is necessary regarding the pardon process, pointing to his own controversial pardon record, which included a pardon for his half-brother.

Clinton’s Counsel Against Preemptive Measures

Bill Clinton’s advice to President Biden not to issue preemptive pardons aims to avert unnecessary political backlash. During his comments, Clinton asserted that possible charges against Hillary Clinton concerning her email management would likely lack legal grounding. A previous State Department investigation linked 38 individuals to security violations concerning her private email server, yet no charges ensued.

Despite intense partisan pressure, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre noted that Biden continues reviewing potential pardons and commutations. Clinton responded to inquiries about Biden pardoning people from a list associated with Kash Patel, advising caution. “I hope he won’t do that,” he remarked, emphasizing prudence against hasty political maneuvers.