Biden Commutes 2500 Non-Violent Drug Sentences

President Joe Biden has announced the commutation of sentences for nearly 2,500 individuals convicted of nonviolent drug offenses, marking the largest single-day clemency action by a U.S. president. This decision aims to address disproportionately long sentences, particularly those stemming from outdated distinctions between crack and powder cocaine, which have historically contributed to racial disparities in the criminal justice system. Biden emphasized that this action is a step toward correcting historic wrongs and providing individuals the chance to reunite with their families. This move adds to a series of clemency actions by Biden, which includes prior commutations for individuals affected by the pandemic and those on death row. As he concludes his term, Biden is weighing the possibility of additional pardons and commutations before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. The White House has not disclosed the names of those affected by this commutation.