In a landmark decision, U.S. President Joe Biden has granted presidential pardons to 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes, while also commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 people, in what the White House claims is the most extensive exercise of clemency in a single day by any president. The names of the individuals benefiting from these acts of mercy have not been disclosed. According to the U.S. Constitution, the president holds broad authority “to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment.”
Biden's Historic Pardons: 39 Granted and Nearly 1,500 Sentences Commuted
Biden's Historic Pardons: 39 Granted and Nearly 1,500 Sentences Commuted
In a significant act of clemency, President Biden has issued pardons and commutations to hundreds, marking a pivotal moment in his administration's approach to justice.
This announcement follows Biden's recent controversial pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, adding another layer to his clemency record that has previously been characterized by fewer pardons compared to past presidents. Biden emphasized that the individuals he pardoned had "shown successful rehabilitation," including non-violent offenders with drug-related convictions. The individuals who received commutations were largely those facing long sentences after being placed in home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic, with Biden stating they "deserve a second chance."
Among those benefiting from the pardons, the White House highlighted diverse individuals such as a decorated military veteran who supported fellow community members, a nurse who was instrumental during the COVID vaccine rollout, and an addiction counselor. Furthermore, Biden indicated that more actions are forthcoming, as he approaches the end of his term, set to leave office on January 20, 2025, when Donald Trump is expected to be inaugurated.
Historically, Biden's record of clemency has fallen short of his predecessors, with Trump having issued 237 acts of clemency during his time in office. The decision to pardon his son has sparked debate, as many see it as a continuation of a trend where presidents grant clemency to associates. However, Biden argues that Hunter's cases were influenced by political agendas.
Among those benefiting from the pardons, the White House highlighted diverse individuals such as a decorated military veteran who supported fellow community members, a nurse who was instrumental during the COVID vaccine rollout, and an addiction counselor. Furthermore, Biden indicated that more actions are forthcoming, as he approaches the end of his term, set to leave office on January 20, 2025, when Donald Trump is expected to be inaugurated.
Historically, Biden's record of clemency has fallen short of his predecessors, with Trump having issued 237 acts of clemency during his time in office. The decision to pardon his son has sparked debate, as many see it as a continuation of a trend where presidents grant clemency to associates. However, Biden argues that Hunter's cases were influenced by political agendas.
