President Joe Biden made headlines on Thursday by issuing the largest single-day clemency action in modern U.S. history. The president commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 individuals and pardoned 39 others, focusing on those convicted of non-violent crimes who have shown rehabilitation and commitment to bettering their communities.
The commutations primarily impacted individuals who had been released from federal prisons to home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the emergency provisions of the CARES Act, thousands of incarcerated individuals were placed under home confinement to curb the spread of the virus in overcrowded facilities. According to the White House, those receiving commutations had been on home confinement for at least a year, demonstrating successful reintegration into society.
“These individuals have earned a second chance,” Biden said in a statement, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation, public safety, and fairness in sentencing.
Among the 39 individuals granted pardons were people who had committed non-violent offenses, including drug-related crimes. Many of them have since become active in their communities, serving as addiction counselors, emergency responders, or advocates for rehabilitation. For example, one recipient, a decorated military veteran, has worked tirelessly with organizations supporting fellow veterans, while another serves as a counselor helping individuals overcome addiction.
Biden’s actions reflect his administration’s efforts to address long-standing concerns about sentencing disparities, particularly for non-violent drug offenses. His statement noted the administration’s ongoing review of clemency petitions and its commitment to promoting equal justice under the law.
This decision follows Biden’s earlier use of categorical pardons, such as his 2022 pardon for individuals convicted of simple marijuana possession under federal law and another pardon granted to military personnel penalized for their sexual orientation. These moves have signaled a broader approach to using clemency as a tool for social justice.
The White House acknowledged that this announcement comes amid ongoing criticisms over Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who faced federal gun and tax charges. Critics have questioned whether this personal decision undermines the integrity of the clemency process. Despite this, the president has maintained his commitment to using the clemency power to rectify systemic inequities.
Biden’s use of clemency also draws attention to the debate around federal death row inmates. Advocacy groups, lawmakers, and religious leaders, including Pope Francis, have called on the president to commute the sentences of the 40 individuals currently on federal death row. These advocates are urging Biden to prevent a potential return to executions under the incoming administration.
Clemency has become a traditional act for outgoing presidents, often reflecting their values and legacy. Biden has outpaced many of his predecessors in granting commutations during his term. By comparison, former President Barack Obama, known for his extensive use of clemency, commuted the sentences of 330 people in a single day during his final year in office. Former President Donald Trump granted clemency to 237 individuals over his term, many of whom were politically connected.
With weeks remaining before he leaves office, Biden has pledged to take additional steps to advance justice and rehabilitation. His actions highlight the president’s belief in second chances and the role of clemency in fostering fairness within the criminal justice system. For those impacted, the opportunity to rebuild their lives offers a profound sense of hope and renewal.
To see a full list of individuals President Biden has pardoned to date, please click here.
Image is in the public domain and was created by The White House.
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