In a recent interview with the New York Times, former President Joe Biden vehemently denied claims that his aides acted without his knowledge when granting a series of pardons and commutations in the final days of his presidency. Biden refuted allegations of incapacitation and lack of awareness, asserting, “I made every single one of those.” The former president dismissed those making such claims as “liars,” emphasizing his direct involvement in the clemency decisions.
The controversy surrounding Biden’s clemency decisions has sparked a debate over the extent of presidential authority and the role of aides in executing such powers. While some view Biden’s firm stance as a demonstration of leadership and accountability, others question the transparency and decision-making process within the White House.
On one hand, supporters of Biden commend his willingness to take responsibility for the pardons and commutations, highlighting his commitment to upholding the rule of law. They argue that the president’s direct involvement in such crucial decisions is essential for accountability and public trust in the executive branch.
Conversely, critics raise concerns about the potential influence of aides and advisors on presidential actions, particularly in cases of clemency. They argue that the autonomy of the president may be compromised if key decisions are made without full transparency and oversight.
The conflicting perspectives on Biden’s clemency decisions underscore broader discussions about the balance of power in the executive branch and the need for ethical governance. As the debate continues, it remains essential to uphold principles of accountability and transparency in presidential actions.
**Political Bias Index:** Neutral
**References:**
– The Guardian: [Biden denies White House aides granted clemency without his knowledge](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/14/joe-biden-pardons-clemency-autopen)
– Fox News: [Biden chief of staff reportedly gave approval for autopen pardons on final day in office](https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiigFBVV95cUxNZHZTcjkzYThRM1Jqb3R5VV9tM2xVSEZJTDdScEd0ZWVReFNEY0JERFFKWkZYNHlyb280QVRlUElIV3VXSHFzMnRyWjFsN19TRXNMcWFrdGhfNE94UHJtYnFJd2FNZEg4SVE2a3FhMkpGWVp0WnNQNFNaLXkxX19KZmtrd0xvbXl1SkE?oc=5&hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US:en)
– The New York Times: [Excerpts From The Times’s Interview With Biden on Clemency Decisions](https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiigFBVV95cUxNZndsUlkyaU1pVy1lLTd5N2NRZUJFSTNZbHgtSzVVc0xDVGw2dG9nOS1ZcGxVdTZ4aHhjU0dCRERzSDZnN1d5NnVlTWJHdzRHZlFLTWhqQVAxbXgwN01KdGM3UG5EX1BkTzN4U3J2YXdMNXdQZU1FdlRwdDJ6LUpUa0dxbVl2eUMwZWc?oc=5&hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US:en)
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