On Thursday, President Joe Biden announced he is commuting the sentences of approximately 1,500 individuals and granting pardons to 39 people convicted of non-violent offenses, marking one of the most significant uses of presidential clemency in recent history as his term nears its end.
White House officials are calling Thursday’s actions the largest single-day clemency move in modern U.S. history. Facing increasing pressure to issue more pardons before his administration concludes, Biden, who controversially pardoned his son Hunter earlier this month, also hinted that more clemency actions would follow in the coming weeks.
“America is founded on the ideals of opportunity and second chances,” Biden said in a statement released shortly after the news broke. “As President, I am privileged to offer mercy to those who have shown remorse and rehabilitation, restoring their ability to engage in society and contribute to their communities, while addressing the disparities in sentencing, particularly for non-violent offenders, especially those convicted of drug-related offenses.”
The 1,500 individuals whose sentences are being commuted were placed under home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and have since demonstrated a clear commitment to rehabilitation, according to sources. The 39 pardoned individuals, convicted of non-violent crimes, have been recognized for their efforts to give back to society and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
“These individuals have found stable employment, pursued education, cared for their families, and have reintegrated into their communities,” a White House official familiar with the clemency actions told CNN. “They have overcome significant personal struggles and shown resilience in their efforts to turn their lives around.”
While the full list of those granted clemency has not been released, several examples have been provided. Among those pardoned are a decorated military veteran who dedicated much of his time to helping the sick and elderly in his community, a nurse who played a key role in disaster response and COVID-19 vaccination efforts, and an addiction counselor who has been recognized for his work mentoring young men of color.
The announcement is expected to be celebrated by human rights activists, advocacy groups, Democratic lawmakers, and the families of those who have received clemency.
As Biden’s first term draws to a close, calls for him to take more aggressive action on clemency have intensified, with some urging him to remove several dozen inmates from federal death row, in line with his opposition to the death penalty.
Biden has previously granted pardons to military veterans convicted of homosexual conduct, which was once criminalized under military law, as well as individuals convicted of marijuana possession.