Biden Commutes 1,500 Sentences, Promises Even More to Come

President Joe Biden announced on Thursday a significant clemency action, commuting the sentences of 1,499 individuals previously released to home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, he pardoned 39 people, primarily those convicted of nonviolent crimes. This marks one of the largest single-day clemency gestures in U.S. history.

The announcement follows recent criticisms directed at Biden for pardoning his son, Hunter Biden, amid felony tax and gun convictions. Biden defended this controversial decision, arguing that the charges against Hunter were politically driven and represented a “miscarriage of justice.”

“America was built on the promise of possibility and second chances,” Biden stated. He emphasized his commitment to extending mercy to those who show remorse and rehabilitation, while also addressing sentencing disparities particularly affecting nonviolent drug offenders.

Notable among the pardoned was Norman O’Neal Brown, who was convicted of nonviolent drug offenses at the age of 22. The White House noted that, had he been sentenced today, he would likely face a reduced sentence. Brown’s original sentence was commuted by former President Barack Obama after two decades served in prison. Since his release, he has actively collaborated with nonprofits aiding incarcerated individuals.

Biden hinted at his intention to continue exercising his clemency powers before the end of his term, although specifics remain unclear. Discussion surrounds potential pardons for 40 inmates on federal death row, in light of fears that the incoming administration under Donald Trump may reinstate capital punishment vigorously.

Human rights advocates and various stakeholders have urged Biden to take action, cautioning that Trump had previously expressed strong support for the death penalty and resumed federal executions during his first term. Progressive Democrats support the recent pardons and assert that more should be done.

Massachusetts Representative Ayanna Pressley described the clemency as a “meaningful and historic action,” celebrating the life-changing impact for nearly 1,500 families. She urged Biden to leverage the remaining days of his presidency to enact further clemency actions, underscoring the moral imperative of such moves as integral to his legacy.

Democrats are also advocating for Biden to ensure protections against potential retribution from Trump’s administration, particularly for members involved in the House January 6 Committee. Biden has not clarified whether he will pursue these recommendations.

Progressives, including 34 lawmakers, have called for Biden to pardon Steven Donziger, an attorney convicted on criminal contempt charges following his work representing indigenous peoples against Chevron. The lawmakers expressed concerns over the charges and their connection to Donziger’s environmental advocacy.

Donziger served over 800 days under house arrest before being sentenced to six months in prison in October 2021. His case garnered national attention, and despite an appeal to the Supreme Court, the court declined to review it earlier this year.