Joe Biden Commutes Death Sentences for 37 Federal Inmates Ahead of Donald Trump’s Return
On December 23, 2023, President Joe Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 federal inmates to life imprisonment without parole. This decision comes shortly before Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the White House and follows pressure from human rights organizations. Biden emphasized his commitment to abolishing the death penalty at the federal level, reflecting on the need to consider his conscience and experience. The move was welcomed by more than 130 advocacy groups, including the ACLU and Amnesty International, who expressed concerns about a potential resurgence of executions under Trump.