In a recent exclusive interview with USA Today, President Joe Biden conveyed his belief that he would have successfully defeated Donald Trump in the November election. Nevertheless, he expressed uncertainty regarding his stamina for an additional four-year term. “So far, so good,” stated the 82-year-old. “But who can predict how I will be at 86?” In the comprehensive interview with Susan Page, Biden also indicated that he is still deliberating on the issuance of pre-emptive pardons for individuals opposed to Donald Trump, such as former Republican congresswoman Liz Cheney and former senior health official Dr. Anthony Fauci.
In an interview released on Wednesday, President Biden stated that he had been “very straightforward with Trump” regarding the possibility of pardons during their meeting in the Oval Office shortly after the November election. “I aimed to clarify that pursuing such actions was unnecessary and counterproductive to his interests,” Biden remarked, noting that Trump did not contest this viewpoint but merely “listened attentively.” Biden indicated that his final decision would be influenced by Trump’s cabinet selections. During the same discussion, Biden mentioned that Trump expressed admiration for his economic achievements. “He [Trump] believed I was departing with a commendable record,” the Democrat commented. This interview with USA Today marks Biden’s only exit interview to date with a print media outlet.
The White House has maintained strict control over media access to President Biden, who has not participated in a news conference since he exited the presidential race on July 21.
In a recent interview, the outgoing president defended the full and unconditional pardon he granted to his son, Hunter Biden, who was facing sentencing for two criminal charges—tax evasion and the illegal acquisition of a firearm—despite having previously stated he would not issue such a pardon.
Biden, who first arrived in Capitol Hill as a U.S. senator in 1972, has drawn criticism from his own party for his apparent unwillingness to withdraw from the presidential race amid growing concerns regarding his age and mental fitness.
