Adam Schiff’s unexpected inclusion in President Biden’s last-minute pardons has sparked controversy, given his strong stance on accountability. During a heated Meet The Press exchange, Schiff hesitated to reject the pardon outright, acknowledging the legal uncertainty surrounding it. The clemency, which also covered Liz Cheney and Dr. Anthony Fauci, was reportedly issued to preempt backlash from Trump’s allies, raising complex legal and political questions.

The key issue is whether a pardon can be declined and what obligations remain. While it shields against prosecution, it may still require testimony in legal proceedings. For Schiff, accepting the pardon could undermine his commitment to transparency, putting him in a difficult position between principle and legal ambiguity.