‘I Didn’t Do Anything Wrong’: Biden on Pardons, Harris, and His Role Post‑Presidency
By Jake Beardslee ·
January 11, 2025
President Joe Biden engaged in an extensive question-and-answer session with reporters on Friday, addressing topics ranging from job growth and election outcomes to pardons and social media controversies. Biden, 82, candidly reflected on his choice not to seek reelection, citing party unity as the primary factor. Josh Morgan / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
"I think I would have beaten Trump—could have beaten Trump," Biden stated, adding, "And I think that Kamala could have beaten Trump, would have beaten Trump." Despite this, he explained his decision was driven by concerns that a divided Democratic Party might lose if he remained in the race. Audrey Richardson and Ryan Garza / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The President also touched on controversial pardons, stating, "I have no contemplation of pardoning myself for anything. I didn’t do anything wrong." He defended his previous pardons, including one for his son Hunter Biden, while hinting at possible considerations for others depending on former President Donald Trump's actions in the coming days. Josh Morgan / USA TODAY NETWORK
During the exchange, Biden critiqued figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk for their approaches to misinformation on social media platforms, condemning moves away from fact-checking as "completely contrary to everything America is about." Amanda Andrade-Rhoades for USA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK
Biden’s remarks come as his administration prepares to hand over leadership, and he promises to remain engaged in public life. "I'm not going to be out of sight, out of mind," he affirmed, while emphasizing his administration's accomplishments in transforming economic policy to prioritize middle and lower-income groups. The White House / Wikimedia
The President’s reflections underscore his legacy while setting the stage for ongoing debates about leadership, party unity, and the evolving role of political and corporate power in shaping America’s future. Office of President Joe Biden / Wikimedia
