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Can Biden issue preemptive pardons to protect Trump critics?

Season 2024 Episode 346 | 6m 44s

After President Biden gave his son, Hunter, an expansive pardon, legal experts have questioned how a president’s pardon power could be used moving forward. That includes questions about the possible use of preemptive pardons. Amna Nawaz discussed more with Kim Wehle, author of "Pardon Power: How the Pardon System Works-and Why."

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
UN commission accuses Israel of genocide in Gaza. Lawyers offer opposing views on findings
Woman wrongfully detained in immigration raid describes what she endured
What ousted CDC director Monarez revealed about RFK Jr. during a Senate hearing
Archivist fired by Trump launches a national effort to strengthen democracy
Federal Reserve cuts interest rates amid economic uncertainty
Trump greeted with royal reception to begin his second state visit
News Wrap: Patel faces criticism for not releasing FBI's Epstein files
September 17, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode
September 16, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode
Ex-FBI agent analyzes Patel’s performance, staff shakeups and bureau’s direction