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.
Ancestry website cataloguing names of Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II
London Book Fair director calls for more cultural exchange
Xizang's traditional culture effectively inherited and protected: expert
People of Gelao ethnic group celebrate Maolong Festival in SW China's Guizhou
With an assist from the Denver Broncos, Colorado becomes 11th state to sanction girls flag football
Joel Cauchi: New details emerge about Bondi Junction knifeman that killed six
Annual Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival held in New York City
Paolo Banchero scores 26 as Magic clinch playoff spot with 113
Southwest Airlines flight attendants ratify a contract that will raise pay about 33% over 4 years
Story of bear brothers manifest evolution of Chinese animation
Maine sheriff's fate rests with governor after commissioners call for his firing
Lantern Festival function held for Taiwan business people on mainland