U.S. President Joe Biden announced sweeping clemency measures Thursday, pardoning 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes and shortening sentences for nearly 1,500 others—a move advocates call a win for criminal justice reform. 💥
This comes weeks after Biden’s unconditional pardon of his son Hunter, sparking debates about fairness in the U.S. legal system. Officials say the White House is now addressing calls for broader reforms, focusing on outdated sentencing practices. 🔄
Most commutations apply to those moved to home confinement during COVID-19 to curb prison outbreaks. Biden emphasized that many would face shorter sentences under today’s policies: \"Restoring opportunity for Americans to contribute to their communities is a privilege,\" he said. 🌟
Civil rights groups like The Leadership Conference praised the step but urged Biden to \"use his power even more boldly\" before his term ends. Rep. Ayanna Pressley called it \"historic action\" while pushing for further reforms. 📢
The White House confirmed this is the largest single-day clemency granted by a president. With 39 days left in office, Biden’s team says more petitions are under review. 🔍
