President Biden announced on Thursday that he is commuting the sentences of nearly 1,500 individuals and granting pardons to 39 others, marking what has been described as the most extensive act of clemency in a single day by a U.S. president in modern history. The individuals receiving commutations had been serving lengthy sentences that would be shorter under current laws and practices. Many of them had been on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating successful integration into their communities.
The White House provided insights into the 39 individuals receiving pardons, most of whom were convicted of non-violent drug offenses during their youth. Many have served in the military and are actively participating in community service, including initiatives focused on addiction recovery and assisting others in navigating life post-incarceration.
Historically, Biden has already issued more commutations during his administration than recent predecessors when comparing similar timeframes. He has also granted categorical pardons for simple marijuana use and for LGBTQ+ individuals who faced conviction due to their sexual orientation while in military service.
Despite this landmark decision, clemency advocates argue that there is more work to be done, particularly regarding those on death row. Legal experts underline the importance of Biden’s clemency powers, suggesting that commuting the sentences of individuals already in home confinement might be seen as the easiest opportunity for reform, while urging the president to take bolder steps.
Cynthia Roseberry from the ACLU expressed hope that Biden would commute the sentences of the 40 individuals currently facing the death penalty, citing the potential for reunifying families as a significant positive outcome. Additionally, Democratic lawmakers have echoed this call for action on capital punishment, emphasizing Biden’s prior campaign commitment to abolish the federal death penalty.
Biden, in his statement, recognized the ongoing need for reform, stating his administration will keep reviewing clemency petitions to bolster equal justice, support rehabilitation and reentry, and offer meaningful second chances. This commitment reflects a positive move toward addressing systemic issues in the criminal justice system.
As Biden progresses through his remaining time in office, his actions on clemency could lead to significant changes for many individuals affected by the judicial system, creating an opportunity for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.