By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Biden’s annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon highlights the underutilization of his broader clemency powers. Over 65 members of Congress urged Biden to employ these powers to address systemic injustices within the criminal justice system, specifically citing mass incarceration and the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. This call for action emphasizes the potential for pardons to correct inequities and reduce the substantial financial burden of mass incarceration. Advocates argue for a more expansive use of clemency, referencing the historical precedent of presidents granting pardons to thousands, and highlighting the urgent need for action on death row cases.
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Biden should use his pardon power more extensively than just for the traditional Thanksgiving turkeys. The sheer scale of potential injustices and the opportunity to shape a more equitable future demand a broader application of this significant presidential authority. Consider the thousands languishing in federal prisons for low-level marijuana offenses; these individuals, often convicted under outdated laws, deserve a second chance. A blanket pardon would be a powerful statement about evolving societal views on cannabis and would alleviate a significant burden on the prison system.
The issue of student loan debt is another area ripe for presidential action. If the Department of Education is truly slated for elimination, then logically the associated debt should also be extinguished. This bold move would provide immediate relief to millions struggling under the weight of educational debt, revitalizing the economy and fostering hope in a younger generation. It would, however, likely be fiercely opposed by some, a factor that shouldn’t deter the president from acting in the best interests of his constituents.
The case of Charles Littlejohn, the ex-IRS contractor sentenced for leaking tax information, also deserves consideration. The public interest in exposing potential wrongdoing by powerful individuals outweighs the legal ramifications in this instance, making a pardon or commutation of sentence a justifiable action. Similarly, the long-standing plea for clemency regarding Leonard Peltier should be reviewed with the weight of justice and human compassion in mind. A long sentence without new evidence of wrongdoing begs reconsideration.
Beyond individual cases, there’s a broader argument for using executive clemency to address systematic injustice. The immense cost of mass incarceration, disproportionately impacting marginalized communities, needs to be critically addressed. A blanket pardon for non-violent offenders could drastically reduce this burden and reshape the criminal justice landscape. This alone would justify a concerted effort. Further, undocumented immigrants living in fear of deportation would find a renewed sense of security, and the possibility of granting them amnesty could ease many anxieties.
The pardon power could also be strategically utilized as a deterrent against future political witch hunts. A blanket pardon for federal employees could offer protection against unwarranted retribution. Though seemingly provocative, this action underscores the president’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the government and its servants.
Considering the potential political ramifications, pardoning his son, Hunter Biden, is also a discussion point. Though a seemingly personal decision, this action could strategically neutralize potential attacks by political opponents. The President should prioritize his actions around national wellbeing and not succumb to political pressures.
However, the possibility of the President exercising these powers is questionable given his historical stances on criminal justice reform. Some argue that his past actions, such as involvement in the 1994 crime bill, indicate a reluctance to embrace bolder, more progressive strategies. This is a fair criticism that calls for a reassessment of the President’s priorities and his willingness to utilize the full extent of his power. The potential benefits for millions of Americans however far outweigh the political costs.
Ultimately, Biden’s decision on how to use his pardon power will be a pivotal moment in his presidency. He has an unparalleled opportunity to leave a legacy that prioritizes justice, fairness, and a more compassionate approach to criminal justice reform. The potential benefits far outweigh the risks and he should act accordingly. Ignoring the potential of such expansive use of his powers would be a missed opportunity and a betrayal of a progressive platform. The choice remains his, and he should choose wisely.