Former White House counsel to President Nixon, John Dean, has publicly recommended that President Biden broaden the scope of his pardons. Dean's aim is to safeguard individuals he believes might be targeted by President-elect Donald Trump upon his return to office. Dean suggested this strategy on the social media platform Bluesky, advocating for a "blanket pardon" encompassing Department of Justice officials involved in Trump investigations and prosecutions, as well as anyone on Trump's perceived "enemies list." Dean's proposed pardon would cover any political statements made before December 25, 2024.

This recommendation follows President Biden's pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, on federal tax and gun charges. Biden defended the pardon, citing his belief that Hunter was unfairly targeted due to his family connection. The pardon led to the termination of the ongoing firearms case against Hunter Biden. However, this action contradicts President Biden's past assurances that he wouldn't pardon his son.

Dean's suggestion stems from concerns about potential retaliatory actions by Trump against those involved in past investigations. He alluded to Trump's 2023 CPAC speech, where Trump portrayed himself as a vehicle for retribution. Dean's concern is shared by others who fear Trump might use his presidential powers to target perceived adversaries. While Trump has at times expressed intentions to prosecute those he believes wronged him, he has also, on other occasions, moderated his stance and even expressed a willingness to forgive critics.

A prominent critic of Trump, Dean testified against him in 2019 during a congressional hearing regarding the Mueller report. Dean, known for his involvement in the Watergate scandal and subsequent guilty plea to obstruction of justice, has often been cited by progressive media outlets for his critiques of the Republican Party.