Thompson Discusses Potential Pardons with Biden

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, discussions are ongoing among members of the Jan. 6 select committee regarding potential preemptive pardons from President Joe Biden. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), who chaired the committee, confirmed he spoke with the White House counsel about the possibility and indicated he would accept a pardon if offered. Thompson expressed concern about Trump's threats of retribution against committee members, stating, 'I believe Donald Trump when he says he’s going to inflict retribution on this.' Although Biden has mentioned considering pardons for Trump critics, committee members have not formally sought them, leading to a debate on the implications of accepting such pardons. Some members, including Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), voiced worries about potential political repercussions and whether accepting a pardon would imply wrongdoing. The discussions highlight the tension surrounding Trump's continued influence and the legal protections available to lawmakers under the Speech or Debate Clause.