1. United States
2. Letter

President Biden must use the pardon power to protect American patriots who have faced threats from Trump for opposing his undemocratic actions. Individuals like Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger, military leaders who stood up for democracy, former Trump staffers who testified truthfully, journalists, activists, and others have risked careers and safety by rejecting Trump's lies about election fraud. Trump has explicitly threatened violence and prosecutions against his critics. While the judicial system should protect them, the costs of defending against bogus prosecutions are immense - financial, reputational, and emotional harm that could deter future dissent. Pardoning Trump's critics now prevents this chilling effect while shielding those who put nation over party. Failing to act leaves these truth-tellers vulnerable to Trump's vindictiveness and desire for vengeance against enemies. Biden has a moral duty to use this constitutional power to safeguard American democracy's defenders.