US President Joe Biden has set a new record for clemency, granting nearly 1,500 commutations and 39 pardons in a single day.
The power of presidential clemency is not a new thing; in fact it is as old as the United States itself, enshrined in the Constitution and first exercised by George Washington in 1795. Over the years, it has been used to right wrongs, correct injustices, and, occasionally, to settle political scores. Clemency has always been a tool of both justice and politics, from Lincoln’s pardons during the Civil War to Ford’s controversial pardon of Nixon.
President Biden’s latest clemency spree is extraordinary. Nearly 1,500 individuals serving home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic have had their sentences commuted.
You might wonder why Biden has commuted the sentences of so many people. The president framed this move as a crucial step in restoring dignity and opportunity to those who have shown remorse and made efforts towards rehabilitation.
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Biden stated: “America was built on the promise of possibility and second chances. As president, I have the great privilege of extending mercy to people who have demonstrated remorse and rehabilitation, restoring opportunity for Americans to participate in daily life and contribute to their communities.”
According to the White House, these individuals have shown successful rehabilitation and a commitment to their communities. Among the 39 pardons are non-violent offences, including drug offenders, a decorated veteran, and a nurse who led disaster response efforts.
However, not everyone is applauding. Critics claim that Biden’s clemency record is outshone by his recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, who faced serious charges of tax evasion and federal gun violations. The timing of these pardons, just weeks before Biden is set to leave office, has only fueled speculation about his motives. This move has been seen by many as a deliberate act of favoritism, undermining the integrity of the justice system.
What does this all mean for Biden’s legacy? While his actions have undoubtedly given many a new lease on life, the shadow of Hunter Biden’s pardon looms large. The move marks the largest single-day clemency action in modern US history. The second largest clemency action was by former US President Obama when he issued 330 commutations in his final days in office.
Was this a genuine act of compassion or a final, desperate bid for a positive legacy? Is he a champion of second chances or a president who bends the rules for his own family?
