Politics
Unpunished crimes? These are all the presidential pardons of U.S. presidents in recent terms of office
Imagine having the ability to erase someone’s criminal record with a single stroke of a pen. For U.S. presidents, this isn’t just imagination—it’s a constitutional reality.
From controversial family favors to last-minute clemency sprees, presidential pardons have long been a source of political intrigue and public scrutiny.
Across all administrations since the turn of the millenium, we see a pattern of presidents using pardons for various purposes:
- Addressing perceived injustices in the criminal justice system
- Rewarding political allies or donors
- Making symbolic gestures on social issues
- Protecting family members or close associates
While the power to pardon is a constitutional right of the president, its use often raises questions about fairness and the potential abuse of power. As we’ve seen with Biden’s pardon of his son, these decisions can have significant political ramifications and spark intense public debate.
George W. Bush (2001-2009)
During his eight years in office, Bush granted 189 pardons and 11 commutations. One of his most notable pardons was for Lewis “Scooter” Libby, a former White House aide convicted of perjury and obstruction of justice.
Barack Obama (2009-2017)
Obama significantly increased the use of clemency, granting 212 pardons and a record 1,715 commutations. His focus was on addressing harsh sentencing for non-violent drug offenses, which led to the largest use of clemency power in U.S. history.
Donald Trump (2017-2021)
Trump’s use of the pardon power was particularly controversial. He granted 143 pardons and 94 commutations, many to political allies and celebrities. Notable pardons included Paul Manafort, Roger Stone, and Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Joe Biden (2021-present)
Biden has used his pardon power more sparingly, but made headlines by pardoning thousands convicted of marijuana possession on federal lands. His most recent and controversial pardon was for his son Hunter Biden, convicted of gun and tax charges
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