President Joe Biden has exercised his clemency power by granting pardons to 11 men and women and commuting the sentences of five other individuals who were convicted of non-violent drug crimes. This move is part of Biden's ongoing efforts to address racial disparities in the justice system.
In a statement released on Wednesday, President Biden highlighted that April is Second Chance Month and emphasized that many of the recipients of clemency had received sentences that were disproportionately longer than what they would have received under current laws.
The President, who is currently campaigning for reelection in November, is focusing on garnering support from communities of color that played a significant role in his victory over Republican Donald Trump in the 2020 election. Biden reiterated that his clemency actions are aligned with his commitment to addressing racial disparities and enhancing public safety.
Biden emphasized that the individuals receiving pardons have demonstrated a dedication to improving their lives and making positive contributions to their communities. Those whose sentences were commuted have proven themselves deserving of forgiveness and the opportunity to rebuild their lives outside of prison.
President Biden's latest clemency actions follow his previous pardons in December 2023, where he granted clemency to thousands of individuals who were convicted of using and possessing marijuana on federal lands and in the District of Columbia.
