Trump, Biden Pardons Spur Ethics, Media Bias Debate

The use of presidential pardon power by Joe Biden and Donald Trump has sparked significant debate, with notable media double standards in their coverage. Biden's pardons, including controversial preemptive pardons for family members like Hunter Biden and political allies, were often downplayed or justified, despite questions about his direct involvement and concerns about aides potentially using autopen signatures. In contrast, Trump's pardons, including those for well-connected individuals such as a tax fraud convict linked to his campaigns, have been characterized by some media figures as corrupt or abuses of power, though conservative voices like CNN's Scott Jennings highlight the transparency and accountability in Trump's approach. Critics on networks like MSNBC condemned Trump’s pardons as uniquely abusive, while ignoring similar actions by Biden, revealing partisan bias. The liberal media's harsh critique of Trump's pardons contrasts with their previous praise or acceptance of Biden's pardoning spree, exposing inconsistent ethical standards. This polarized reaction underscores ongoing tensions over presidential clemency and its political implications.