Biden Commutes 37 Federal Death Sentences to Life Without Parole

The outgoing president cites moral conviction and fears of resumed executions under his successor, Donald Trump.

President Joe Biden has converted 37 federal death sentences into life imprisonment without parole, leaving three cases unchanged due to their links to terrorism or hate crimes.
Biden's decision aligns with his long-standing opposition to the death penalty and follows a federal moratorium on executions imposed during his presidency in July 2021.
The president expressed concern that his successor, Donald Trump, a vocal proponent of capital punishment, may resume federal executions after taking office in January.
Public attitudes toward the death penalty in the U.S. are shifting, with growing scrutiny over racial bias, wrongful convictions, and disparities in legal representation.
This commutation comes as part of broader clemency actions by Biden, including the reduction of sentences for nearly 1,500 federal prisoners and 39 pardons earlier this month.