President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to “vigorously pursue the death penalty” as a top priority when he takes office.
His fiery pledge comes in response to President Joe Biden’s controversial decision to commute the death sentences of 37 federal prisoners just days before Christmas... Continue reading here ▶
Trump’s Reaction
Trump took to his Truth Social platform on Tuesday morning to criticize Biden’s actions, calling the decision “nonsensical.” A few hours later, he followed up with a promise to restore harsher punishments.
“As soon as I am inaugurated, I will direct the Justice Department to vigorously pursue the death penalty to protect American families and children from violent rapists, murderers, and monsters,” Trump posted. “We will be a Nation of Law and Order again!”
Trump’s post included a screenshot of a New York Post report highlighting Biden’s commutations, which reduced the sentences of individuals convicted of heinous crimes to life imprisonment without parole. The article featured lurid descriptions of the crimes and photos of the victims, amplifying Trump’s condemnation.
Biden’s Controversial Move
Biden’s commutations, announced just two days before Christmas, lowered 37 death sentences to life imprisonment without parole. While Biden did not offer specific reasons for his decision, his opposition to the death penalty has been consistent throughout his presidency.
The New York Post article noted that Biden’s actions included a blanket pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, earlier this month and referenced nearly 1,500 sentence commutations granted to prisoners released during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report also drew attention to the timing of the commutations, suggesting that “Christmas came early” for some of the convicted individuals.
Trump’s Law-and-Order Promise
Trump, a polarizing figure who has faced his own legal battles, positioned himself as a staunch advocate for harsher punishments. His statement emphasized a return to “Law and Order,” promising that his administration would make the death penalty a priority for violent criminals.
This stance resonates with Trump’s core supporters, who have long viewed him as a defender of law enforcement and public safety. However, critics argue that Trump’s rhetoric could further polarize the nation, especially on issues of criminal justice reform and the death penalty.
