WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has granted clemency to 16 people who were convicted of non-violent drug crimes, issuing pardons to 11 men and women and commuting the sentences of five other people in the latest use of his clemency power to address racial disparities in the justice system.
Biden said in a statement Wednesday that April is Second Chance Month and that many of the individuals getting clemency had received “disproportionately longer” sentences than they would have under current law.
The Democratic president is campaigning for reelection in November and is grappling with how to boost support from communities of color that heavily supported him over Republican Donald Trump in the 2020 election. The two rivals are headed for a likely rematch in November.
“Like my other clemency actions, these pardons and commutations reflect my overarching commitment to addressing racial disparities and improving public safety,” Biden said.
Hazing concerns prompt University of Virginia to expel 1 fraternity and suspend 3 others
Country lifestyle attracts people to village
Confucius, or the Science of the Princes: key to better understanding Sino
Action movie The Pig, the Snake and the Pigeon stays atop China's box office chart
Groups urge Alabama to reverse course, join summer meal program for low
Ethnic performance nourishes soul, life in southwest China
Ice and snow metaverse experience center in Harbin draws attention
Greater choice gives tourism sector a boost
Nootbaar, Gibson spark Cardinals to 5
Village Super League, new gala for ethnic culture in SW China
Protests at US campuses are pressing colleges to cut financial ties with Israel
Another ankle injury rules Dortmund forward Haller out of Champions League match against Atlético