In an unprecedented move, President Joe Biden granted presidential pardons to 39 individuals convicted of non-violent offenses and reduced the sentences of nearly 1,500 more, marking the largest single-day act of presidential clemency in U.S. history, according to the White House.
During the announcement, Biden emphasized that those pardoned, including his own son, Hunter Biden, "have shown successful rehabilitation and a commitment to strengthening their communities." The White House indicated that the pardoned individuals had committed non-violent or drug-related offenses. Although specific crimes were not detailed, it was noted that several of the pardoned had already been released and were active as community leaders, veterans, or advocates for social causes.
A notable case mentioned was a Virginia resident who, after being convicted of a drug offense at 21, went on to earn a college degree, enjoy a successful career in the U.S. Army and Air Force, and work with veteran charities.
Among the 1,499 individuals whose sentences were commuted, many were under home confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic or were serving what were deemed excessive sentences under outdated laws. "They have shown they deserve a second chance," Biden stated.
This historic action follows Biden's recent decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, who faced charges of tax offenses and illegal firearm possession. The move stirred controversy, as the president had previously ruled out this possibility, arguing that the cases against his son were politically motivated.
Biden has also contemplated issuing preventive pardons for prominent critics of his successor, Donald Trump, to shield them from potential retribution, though he is concerned about the precedent this might set.
President Biden’s clemency record has been more limited compared to other modern presidents, though he has previously issued categorical pardons. In 2022, he pardoned individuals convicted of simple marijuana possession, and this year, he extended that measure to other marijuana-related offenses. Additionally, he granted pardons to military personnel and veterans convicted due to their sexual orientation.
In comparison, former President Trump issued 237 acts of clemency during his first term, including 143 pardons and 94 commutations. Recently, Trump vowed to pardon non-violent participants in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Amid these decisions, a former FBI informant, Alexander Smirnov, confessed to fabricating corruption allegations against Biden and his son linked to Ukrainian company Burisma, fueling investigations by Republican lawmakers.
With less than two months in office, Biden is committed to continuing efforts to address inequalities in the criminal justice system, aiming to leave a legacy that enhances opportunities for redemption and rehabilitation.
Understanding Biden's Historic Clemency Move
What offenses were committed by those who received pardons?
The pardoned individuals were convicted of non-violent or drug-related offenses, although specific crimes were not detailed.
Why did Biden pardon his son, Hunter Biden?
Biden pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, who faced charges of tax offenses and illegal firearm possession, arguing that the cases were politically motivated.
How does Biden's clemency record compare to Trump's?
Biden's clemency record is more limited than Trump's, who issued 237 acts of clemency during his first term, including 143 pardons and 94 commutations.
What are Biden's future plans regarding criminal justice reforms?
Biden plans to continue addressing inequalities in the criminal justice system, aiming to enhance opportunities for redemption and rehabilitation.