- Details: President Joe Biden’s pardon of his son convictions related to gun and tax offences has ignited debates on presidential powers and potential favouritism.
- Relevance : GS 2 (International Relations )
- Implications: Critics argue it undermines justice and fairness; defenders see it as correcting political bias.
US Presidential Pardon Power:
- Constitutional Basis: Article II, Section 2, Clause 1 of the U.S. Constitution.
- Scope: Applies to federal offences, not state crimes.
- Types: Full pardon, commutation, reprieve, amnesty.
- Exclusions: Cannot reverse impeachment decisions.
- Controversies: Usage can be contentious, especially if benefiting political allies or family members.
- Irrevocable: Once a pardon is granted, the next president cannot revoke or change it.
