Biden Grants 39 Presidential Pardons and Commutes 1,500 Sentences

President Joe Biden has granted pardons to 39 Americans convicted of non-violent crimes and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 others, marking the largest single-day act of presidential clemency in U.S. history. The White House has not disclosed the names of those granted clemency.

Under the U.S. Constitution, the president holds the broad authority to “grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the United States, except in cases of impeachment.”

Biden’s announcement emphasized that those pardoned had demonstrated successful rehabilitation and committed themselves to strengthening their communities. Their convictions were primarily related to non-violent offenses, including drug-related crimes.

The commuted sentences specifically benefited individuals who had been placed under home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and were facing lengthy sentences, which Biden deemed excessive. He stated that these individuals “deserve a second chance.”

Notable beneficiaries of the clemency included a decorated military veteran, a nurse who contributed to the COVID vaccine rollout, and an addiction counselor. The White House indicated that more clemency actions are expected in the coming weeks.

Earlier this month, Biden also issued a controversial pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, who faced sentencing in two criminal cases. This decision has sparked debate, as it continues a trend of presidents from both parties granting clemency to people close to them. Biden justified his son’s pardon by claiming the criminal charges were politically motivated.

Biden’s move contrasts with the clemency record of former President Donald Trump, who granted 237 acts of clemency during his first term, including 143 pardons and 94 commutations.

As Biden prepares to leave office on January 20, 2025, his administration’s clemency decisions are drawing attention to the evolving use of presidential pardons and commutations in U.S. history.