President Joe Biden has ignited a storm of controversy by issuing more than 3,000 pardons and commutations in the waning days of his presidency, a record-breaking spree that includes clemency for his own family.
Fox News reported that these actions have prompted fierce backlash from lawmakers concerned about the implications for the justice system and the traditional purpose of presidential pardons.
Biden's extensive use of pardons and commutations has become a contentious issue as it includes controversial figures and his own family members, raising questions about fairness and precedent.
Biden's record-setting clemency effort was noted especially for its timing and scale, with numerous pardons granted on his last day in office.
Among the beneficiaries were Biden's family members James Biden, Hunter Biden, and Valerie Biden-Owens. This aspect of his clemency decisions has drawn particularly sharp criticism from various lawmakers.
One particularly contentious pardon was that of former Pennsylvania Judge Michael Conahan, infamous for his role in the "kids for cash" scandal.
Conahan's pardon was seen by some as disrespectful to the victims and a blow to ongoing reform efforts within the juvenile justice system. Sen. Lisa Baker strongly criticized the decision, emphasizing the negative impact it could have on those working to create a fairer justice system.
The backlash to Biden's clemency actions was swift, with Pennsylvania lawmakers like Rep. Dan Meuser openly rebuking the pardons. Meuser's viewpoint suggests these actions imply wrongdoing. The pardon process, in his eyes, risks being diminished and sets a precarious precedent.
At the heart of the debate is the presidential power of pardon, a constitutional authority confirmed by the Supreme Court in the 1974 case Schick v. Reed.
While many disagree with Biden's decisions, the constraints of a constitutional amendment are acknowledged, indicating that Congress cannot alter this power without significant legal change.
However, Meuser expressed concerns about the potential implications of these pardons, particularly in light of preemptive clemency decisions.
He noted that the Founding Fathers likely did not anticipate a president pardoning family members who might have committed serious offenses.
This situation has led to broader conversations about the efficacy of the pardon system and the possible need for reform. Despite the criticism, Biden's use of clemency power remains constitutionally protected.
The president's hometown of Scranton, Pennsylvania, is also feeling the effects of his pardon decisions.
Sen. Lisa Baker is spearheading efforts to rename the "President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Expressway." She cites widespread public sentiment as motivation for this movement, reflecting the strong reactions against Biden's pardons.
Baker argues that removing Biden's name would honor those who respect equal justice. This local initiative underscores the broader discontent with Biden's controversial pardons and aims to uphold the values of fairness in the community.
Moreover, there is concern about the lack of communication with victims affected by pardons granted. At the federal level, a voluntary notification process is in place, but it does not guarantee victims are informed when such a decision is made.
Rep. Rob Bresnahan voiced his disappointment, particularly regarding Biden's campaign promises. The lack of surprise among the public suggests a broader skepticism about political promises and decision-making integrity.
Biden's pardon spree stands as a notable chapter in his presidency and continues to spark debates on the proper use of presidential powers. The long-term impacts of these decisions, both locally and nationally, remain to be fully seen.
