Biden Sets Record with Commutations, Spurs Debate

President Joe Biden has commuted the sentences of nearly 2,500 individuals convicted of nonviolent drug offenses, setting a record for the most pardons and commutations in a single presidential term. This action aims to address disproportionately long sentences, particularly those related to outdated distinctions between crack and powder cocaine. Biden's clemency efforts have been praised by criminal justice advocacy organizations for providing relief to those affected by harsh federal drug policies. The move also underscores Biden's commitment to rectifying historic injustices stemming from the War on Drugs. While the White House has not released specific names of those granted clemency, Biden has indicated further pardons and commutations may be forthcoming before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Biden's efforts have been part of broader criminal justice reforms, including calls for governors to address state-level marijuana offenses.