Biden’s biggest pardon: A historic move, know how many people were pardoned.
On December 13, 2024, President Joe Biden made history by issuing the largest pardon in U.S. history in one day. In a powerful step toward justice reform, Biden pardoned 39 individuals and commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 others. This sweeping action aims to correct past injustices and give a second chance to those affected by harsh sentences, especially for nonviolent offenses.
A second chance for many
The president’s decision impacts a wide range of people, many of whom were serving sentences for minor, nonviolent crimes. The focus of the pardons was primarily on people convicted of low-level drug offenses, especially marijuana offenses. Biden aims to fix a flawed system that has disproportionately affected communities of color. Pardons and sentence reductions provide opportunities for people who have paid their debt to society to make positive contributions by rejoining their communities.
Reducing injustice in the criminal system
Biden has been vocal about the need to reform the criminal justice system. He believes that too many people, particularly those convicted of drug-related crimes, have faced overly harsh penalties. This action is part of a larger initiative by his administration to reform policies that contribute to mass incarceration. It aims to create a more equitable system where individuals are not unfairly punished for actions that should not have severe consequences.
A broader effort for change
While this clemency action is important, Biden’s administration is also pushing for legislative changes to support criminal justice reform. The clemency action represents an important step, but the broader effort includes addressing the systemic issues that lead to excessive incarceration and racial disparities in the justice system.
A Day of Hope and Change
For the 39 people who received full pardons and the 1,500 who had their sentences commuted, December 13, 2024, will be remembered as a day of hope and new opportunities. This historic action demonstrates that the government can take steps toward repairing past harms and providing a fresh start for many Americans.
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