Official records from the White House or Department of Justice

Biden Grants Largest Single-Day Clemency to Nearly 1,500 Americans, Pardon 39 Non-Violent Offenders Amid Controversy

Dec 21, 2024, 01:03 PM

President Joe Biden has made headlines with his recent decision to grant clemency to nearly 1,500 Americans and pardon 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes. This move, announced last week, is noted as the largest single-day act of clemency in modern U.S. history, surpassing the first-term totals of his predecessors. The clemency grants have sparked controversy across the political spectrum, with discussions about the implications of such a significant number of pardons and commutations. Analysts suggest that Biden's actions may set a precedent for future presidents, including Donald Trump, to issue blanket pardons, particularly concerning January 6 offenders. The ongoing debate raises questions about the integrity of the criminal justice system and the criteria used for granting clemency.