Explore what U.S. presidents do after leaving the White House
- In his final weeks in office, President Biden commuted sentences and pardoned individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes.
- These actions reflect Biden's commitment to criminal justice reform and addressing systemic injustices.
- Advocates continue to urge Biden to implement further initiatives to enhance equality and support marginalized communities.
In the waning days of President Joe Biden's tenure in the White House, he has taken significant executive actions that highlight his administration's focus on issues of social justice and equality. On December 15, 2024, it was reported that he commuted the sentences of nearly 1,500 individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes and pardoned 39 others. This decision reflects a broader trend in his presidency aimed at reforming the criminal justice system and addressing injustices that have historically affected marginalized communities. Biden’s presidency has faced criticism and challenges, especially regarding his stance on capital punishment and the treatment of individuals incarcerated for nonviolent offenses. The recent commutations and pardons serve as a critical reminder of his commitment to these issues, which he articulated during his campaign. As he prepares to hand over the presidency to Donald Trump, calls for further actions to enhance equality and justice continue to resonate, urging him to contribute positively in these final weeks. Moreover, alongside these significant decisions, Biden is being urged to take further actions before he leaves office. Advocates have suggested various initiatives ranging from protecting immigrants from deportation threats to establishing a men’s mental health task force. The proposed measures reflect a desire among many within the community for the president to utilize his remaining time to implement impactful policies that would benefit a wide array of social issues. In addition to the current measures proposed, Biden is encouraged to pursue environmental protections, support for marginalized minorities, and the expansion of healthcare services. The expectation is that his remaining days in office might yet see the introduction of executive actions that could deliver long-lasting benefits to American society. As the countdown to the transition of power approaches, the conversation surrounding Biden's potential legacies intensifies, emphasizing the importance of making substantial progress in the face of longstanding systemic inequities.