Biden issues last-minute pardons to Fauci, others ahead of Trump inauguration
Trump vowed to press the Justice Department to prosecute people he considered to be part of a political opposition.
US President Joe Biden issued pardons for officials who have clashed with president-elect Donald Trump, using his final hours in the White House to help people he fears could face retribution by the incoming administration.
The White House said the President had issued pardons for retired General Mark Milley, Dr Anthony Fauci and members and staff of the House committee that investigated the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, as well as police officers who testified before the committee.
During his campaign, Mr Trump vowed to press the Justice Department to prosecute people he considered to be part of a political opposition.
“I believe in the rule of law, and I am optimistic that the strength of our legal institutions will ultimately prevail over politics,” Mr Biden said in a statement. “But these are exceptional circumstances, and I cannot in good conscience do nothing.”
The Wall Street Journal
Vaccine information, transgender references scrubbed from US websites
US officials have removed internet pages containing references to gender identity and diversity following Trump administration orders.
Hamas releases three hostages but keeps one’s wife, children
Crowds were more controlled after an unruly transfer earlier in the week drew an outcry. The wife and children of one of the three men released on Saturday are said to remain captive. Israel released more Palestinian prisoners.