John,

The growing calls for President Biden to pardon Donald Trump are misguided and could lead to dire consequences for our democracy. Such a decision would not bring healing or unity but would instead undermine accountability, the rule of law, and public trust in our institutions.

Some, like Senator Joe Manchin and Representative James Clyburn, argue that a pardon could help the country “move forward.” But without accountability, moving forward is impossible. Pardoning Trump would set a dangerous precedent, signaling that the powerful can act with impunity while ordinary people face the full weight of the law, however it may fall on them.

Tell President Biden: Please don't sacrifice justice for political convenience. Democracy depends on accountability. NO pardons for convicted felon Donald Trump.

Here are several reasons why pardoning Trump would be a grave mistake:

• Erodes Accountability: A pardon for Trump would send the message that those in power are above the law, undermining the principle of equal justice.

• Encourages Further Lawbreaking: Forgiving Trump’s actions, from obstruction of justice to inciting insurrection, would embolden others to flout the law, knowing there would be no real consequences.

• Weakens Trust in the Rule of Law: Allowing a president to sidestep justice creates the (accurate) perception that legal systems can be manipulated by the rich and powerful.

• Divides the Nation: Far from uniting the country, pardoning Trump would deepen divisions, reinforcing the belief that the system is rigged for the rich and powerful.

• Threatens National Security: Trump’s mishandling of classified documents jeopardized the safety of the nation. A pardon would minimize the gravity of such violations.

• Undermines Future Justice: Pardoning Trump would establish a precedent for future leaders to abuse power without fear of repercussions, eroding the foundations of democracy.

Forgiving Trump’s long-standing pattern of lawlessness would not heal the nation, but would instead embolden him and others to repeat or escalate these kinds of abuses of power.

Accountability is sine qua non to preserving the integrity of our democracy.

Tell President Biden pardoning Trump would undermine justice, empower corruption, and erode trust in our democratic institutions. Add your name now.

Thank you for standing for accountability, and ensuring our democracy remains strong.

Robert Reich
Inequality Media Civic Action