US NATIONAL NEWS
President Biden Exercises Clemency Powers to Free Nearly 1,500 Americans
WASHINGTON (FNN) – In an unprecedented move, President Joe Biden announced on December 11, 2024, that he is granting clemency to nearly 1,500 Americans — the largest single-day grant of clemency in modern history. This monumental decision includes commuting the sentences of close to 1,500 individuals who were placed on home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as issuing pardons to 39 people convicted of non-violent crimes.
These clemency actions are a continuation of President Biden’s broader commitment to criminal justice reform, focusing on second chances and addressing past sentencing disparities. The President’s use of clemency powers not only reunites families but also empowers individuals to reintegrate into their communities and contribute to society.
Largest Clemency Action in Modern History
The nearly 1,500 individuals granted commutations were serving their sentences at home for at least one year under the COVID-era CARES Act. These individuals have demonstrated successful rehabilitation, secured employment, advanced their education, and reintegrated into society. The 39 individuals receiving pardons were convicted of non-violent offenses, including drug-related crimes, and have since turned their lives around. Among those granted clemency are:
- A decorated military veteran and pilot who dedicates his time to helping fellow church members in need.
- A nurse and emergency responder who led efforts during natural disasters and spearheaded vaccination initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- An addiction counselor who volunteers to guide at-risk youth away from gangs and destructive behaviors.
Biden’s Expanding Use of Clemency Powers
President Biden’s clemency strategy builds on his track record of providing second chances. Since taking office, he has issued more commutations than any of his recent predecessors at this point in their first term. His actions have addressed sentencing inequities, especially for non-violent drug-related offenses and crimes linked to outdated policies.
Key clemency actions throughout his administration include:
- April 2022: 3 pardons and 75 commutations, including individuals with drug-related offenses and CARES Act home confinement.
- December 2022: 6 pardons for recipients with drug- and alcohol-related offenses.
- April 2023: 31 commutations for individuals on CARES Act home confinement.
- December 2023 and April 2024: 11 pardons and 16 commutations for non-violent drug offenders.
These actions highlight the President’s focus on addressing unjust sentencing policies and supporting rehabilitation, reintegration, and the opportunity for individuals to rebuild their lives.
Categorical Clemency: A Bold Approach to Justice Reform
In addition to individualized clemency actions, President Biden has taken an unprecedented approach to categorical clemency. This systemic response has provided relief to large groups of people impacted by outdated and unjust laws. Notable categorical clemency actions include:
- October 2022: Full, unconditional pardon for individuals convicted of simple possession of marijuana.
- December 2023: Expanded relief to include attempted possession, use, and charges of marijuana offenses, regardless of prosecution status.
- June 2024: Full, unconditional pardon for former military service members convicted of unaggravated offenses based on consensual, private conduct linked to sexual orientation.
These categorical clemency actions have inspired leaders across 10 states and local jurisdictions, including Maryland and Massachusetts, to follow suit. By addressing systemic injustices, Biden’s approach aims to remove barriers to employment, education, and housing that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
Impact of Biden’s Clemency on Families and Communities
The President’s clemency actions are life-changing for the recipients, many of whom faced barriers to housing, employment, and education due to their criminal records. By clearing these records, individuals can now access vital resources to lead more stable and productive lives.
For families, the impact is profound. Loved ones who were once separated by incarceration are now reunited. Communities also benefit as rehabilitated individuals return to serve as advocates, professionals, and role models. This ripple effect extends to neighborhoods and workplaces, fostering stronger, safer, and more inclusive communities.
What’s Next for Clemency and Criminal Justice Reform?
President Biden’s clemency announcement signals that more action is on the horizon. The President has pledged to continue reviewing clemency petitions and is committed to further advancing criminal justice reform. Additional steps may include:
- Review of additional clemency petitions to address outdated sentencing laws.
- Broader criminal justice reform that prioritizes rehabilitation and public safety.
- Potential expansion of categorical clemency actions, building on the marijuana-related and military-related relief already granted.
The President’s actions represent a shift in how clemency powers are used, moving from isolated case-by-case reviews to broader, systemic relief for historically marginalized groups. This approach sets a precedent for future administrations and underscores the United States as a “nation of second chances.”
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Florida National News and FNN News Network
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MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) – The global anti-Tesla protest movement intensified on March 29, as demonstrators targeted hundreds of Tesla dealerships and showrooms worldwide. Protesters voiced outrage over Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s influence on U.S. government policies, layoffs in federal agencies, and budget cuts affecting critical programs.
Protesters Condemn Musk’s Influence in Government
The demonstrations, dubbed the “Tesla Takedown”, were fueled by frustration over what activists call Musk’s unchecked power over federal decision-making. Protesters argue that Musk, the world’s richest man, has used his political and financial leverage to lay off thousands of workers, slash government agency budgets, and consolidate power.
“Nobody voted for Elon,” one protester stated. “He’s hijacking our government, cutting funding for essential programs, and treating workers as disposable.”
Anti-Tesla Movement Gains Momentum
The anti-Tesla sentiment is spreading across multiple countries, with protestors uniting under a common goal: hurting Musk’s bottom line. Demonstrators held boldly worded signs with statements such as:
“Fire Musk”
“We Don’t Need This Fascist”
“Honk If You Hate Nazis”
“No Swastikas – No Fascists”
Some placards even depicted Musk as an oligarch gaslighting the public, drawing comparisons between his leadership style and authoritarian regimes.
DOGE Backlash and Government Cuts
The protests also criticized Musk’s role in cryptocurrency manipulation, particularly regarding DOGE (Dogecoin). Many believe Musk’s influence over financial markets has led to instability, impacting small investors.
Moreover, demonstrators highlighted concerns over Musk’s reported backroom deals with the Trump administration, which they claim have resulted in:
Massive layoffs across federal agencies
Defunding critical public programs
Deregulation that benefits corporations while hurting workers
Protesters Demand Change
As the Tesla Takedown movement grows, activists vow to escalate demonstrations, urging consumers to boycott Tesla products and Musk-owned companies.
“We refuse to support a billionaire who disregards democracy, fires workers, and cuts essential programs,” said one organizer. “This is just the beginning.”
US NATIONAL NEWS
Former Trump Impeachment Manager Val Demings Calls Trump Officials’ Response to War Plans Leak “A Shameless Mountain of Lies”
WASHINGTON (FNN) – A major national security scandal has erupted after top officials from President Donald Trump’s administration reportedly shared classified U.S. military strike plans in a private Signal chat, raising alarms about national security breaches and possible legal violations.
Former Trump Impeachment Manager Val Demings Speaks Out
Former U.S. Congresswoman Val Demings, who served as a Trump impeachment manager, strongly condemned the breach, describing it as “a shameless mountain of lies” and a reckless compromise of military strategy.
“As a former member of the Intelligence and Homeland Security committees, the thought of these people sharing strategic military operations on Signal is shocking. Those who testified before the Senate were under oath. Power built on endless lies is not power at all—it’s a house of cards. America, this will end badly unless you demand better,” Demings wrote in a statement on her personal Facebook page.
Val Demings is a former U.S. Congresswoman, former Trump Impeachment Manager, former member of the Intelligence and Homeland Security Committees, and retired Orlando Chief of Police.
Details of the Leaked War Plans
The National Security Council has confirmed the authenticity of the leaked messages, which included classified operational details of upcoming U.S. military strikes on Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The leaked documents allegedly contained:
- Target locations for military strikes
- Weapon deployment strategies
- Attack sequencing and operational details
The sensitive war plans were reportedly shared with The Atlantic’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, in a private Signal group chat involving:
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
Vice President JD Vance
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz
Possible Violations of Federal Laws & National Security Rules
The unauthorized disclosure of sensitive military operations may violate multiple federal laws, including:
- Espionage Act (18 U.S. Code § 793) – Unlawful disclosure of classified national defense information
- Presidential Records Act – Mishandling of government records and sensitive communications
- Federal Records Act – Unauthorized sharing of government communications
- Insider Threat Program Violations – Breach of classified intelligence security measures
- UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) Violations – If military personnel were involved in the leak
Congress Calls for Full Investigation
Bipartisan leaders in both the Senate and House are calling for an investigation into the war plans leak. Lawmakers are demanding:
- Public hearings to address the security breach
- Testimony from top Trump officials named in the leak
- Legal consequences for those responsible
During the Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Vice Chair Mark Warner (D-VA) described the actions of the nation’s top intelligence officials as “sloppy, careless, incompetent behavior.”
“If this was the case of a military officer or an intelligence officer and they had this kind of behavior, they would be fired,” he said.
What’s Next?
- Congressional Hearings on the national security breach
- Potential criminal charges for those responsible
- Wider political fallout for Trump’s national security team
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Florida National New
news@FloridaNationalNews.com
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