Major Networks Differ in Coverage of Trump and Biden Pardons

 January 28, 2025

A stunning disparity emerges in major television networks' coverage of recent presidential pardons during a pivotal period in American politics.

According to the New York Post, ABC, CBS, and NBC dedicated more than 46 minutes to covering President Trump's Jan. 6 pardons while allocating less than four minutes to former President Biden's family pardons during the same period.

The Media Research Center's analysis of flagship morning and evening newscasts from January 20 through January 22 revealed a significant imbalance in coverage. The three major networks collectively spent 46 minutes and 32 seconds discussing Trump's pardons for January 6 defendants, while Biden's preemptive pardons for his family members received only 3 minutes and 32 seconds of airtime.

Major Networks Demonstrate Significant Coverage Disparity in News Programming

ABC's programming showed the most pronounced difference in coverage allocation. Their shows "Good Morning America" and "World News Tonight" devoted 15 minutes and 30 seconds to Trump's pardons while spending merely 34 seconds on Biden's actions. Similar patterns emerged across other networks, with CBS allocating 16 minutes and 32 seconds to Trump's pardons versus 64 seconds for Biden's pardons. NBC followed suit with 14 minutes and 30 seconds for Trump's pardons and less than two minutes for Biden's actions.

The contrast in coverage becomes even more noteworthy, considering both pardons were issued on the same day. Trump's decision to pardon more than 1,500 individuals charged with crimes related to the January 6 Capitol attack garnered extensive analysis and commentary. Meanwhile, Biden's preemptive pardons for five family members - James B. Biden, Sara Jones Biden, Valerie Biden Owens, John T. Owens, and Francis W. Biden - received minimal attention.

President Trump addressed his decision during an interview with Sean Hannity, stating:

A number of reasons. Number one, they were in there for 3-and-a-half years, a long time, and many in solitary confinement… treated so badly. They were treated like the worst criminals in history. And you know what they were there for? They were protesting the vote. You should be allowed to protest a vote.

Historical Context Reveals Shifting Perspectives on Presidential Pardons

The controversy surrounding these pardons takes on additional significance when considering Biden's previous stance on preemptive pardons. During a 2020 CNN interview with Jake Tapper, Biden expressed concerns about such actions. He specifically questioned the precedent it would set and its impact on international perceptions of American justice.

Trump's pardons fulfilled a campaign promise to act swiftly on behalf of what he termed "hostages." This move drew immediate criticism from opponents who viewed it as excusing violence against law enforcement. The extensive coverage of Trump's pardons focused heavily on the implications for democracy and the rule of law.

The disparity in media attention has sparked discussions about editorial decisions and news value judgments. Critics argue that both stories warranted equal scrutiny, given their potential impact on presidential power and justice system integrity. The preemptive nature of Biden's family pardons raises particular questions about the timing and motivation behind such unprecedented action.

Contemporary Political Landscape Shapes Media Focus

Television coverage patterns reflect broader tensions in current political discourse. Trump's return to office and immediate action on January 6 pardons represents a significant shift in policy direction. The extensive coverage of these pardons highlights their perceived importance in the ongoing national debate about the events of January 6, 2021.

Media attention to Biden's family pardons, while limited, raises questions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. The preemptive nature of these pardons, issued during his final hours in office, marks a departure from traditional pardon practices. This development adds another layer to discussions about presidential power limits and ethical considerations.

The implications of both pardon decisions continue to reverberate through political and media landscapes. Legal experts and political analysts debate the long-term effects on presidential precedent and judicial oversight. The stark difference in coverage time underscores the complex relationship between media focus and political narratives.

Diverse Perspectives Shape National Dialogue

The recent presidential pardons by Trump and Biden have highlighted significant differences in media coverage priorities. Trump's pardons for January 6 defendants received over 46 minutes of coverage across major networks, reflecting their perceived importance in national discourse. Meanwhile, Biden's preemptive pardons for family members, though historically unprecedented, garnered less than four minutes of attention from the same networks. These coverage decisions continue to influence public understanding and discussion of presidential power exercise in contemporary American politics.

About Victor Winston

Victor is a freelance writer and researcher who focuses on national politics, geopolitics, and economics.
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