In January of this year, President Joe Biden granted clemency to 37 out of the 40 people on federal death row. This decision has brought immense relief to the inmates and their loved ones, who have been living in fear of facing the same fate as those who were executed under the Trump administration.
For years, the inmates on federal death row have been living in a constant state of anxiety, unsure of their fate as they waited for their execution dates to approach. The Trump administration had resumed federal executions after 17 years, leading to the execution of 13 individuals in just seven months. This created a sense of terror among the remaining inmates, who were left wondering if they would be next in line for the death penalty.
The post “And I Was Surprised”: On Federal Death Row, They Feared Biden Would Set Up Another Trump Killing Spree, published by The Intercept, sheds light on the experiences of the inmates and their reactions to President Biden’s decision to grant clemency. The article highlights the hopelessness and despair that the inmates were living with, as they feared becoming victims of another Trump-era killing spree.
One of the inmates, Chetly Zow, who was granted clemency by President Biden, shared his feelings about the decision in an interview with The Intercept. He expressed his disbelief and surprise, saying, “I couldn’t believe it, I thought it was a joke.” Like many others on death row, Zow had lost all hope of ever being freed and had accepted that he would eventually be executed. However, President Biden’s decision has given him a new lease on life and a chance to rebuild his future.
The article also highlights the impact of President Biden’s decision on the loved ones of those on death row. For the families and friends of the inmates, the fear and uncertainty of losing their loved ones to the death penalty were crippling. They were forced to live with the constant dread of receiving a phone call informing them of their loved one’s execution. The news of clemency brought immense relief and joy to these families, who can now look forward to a future with their loved ones by their side.
President Biden’s decision to grant clemency to the inmates on federal death row is a monumental step towards abolishing the death penalty in the United States. It shows a strong commitment to justice and a recognition of the flaws within the criminal justice system. The decision also aligns with President Biden’s promise to end federal executions, which he made during his campaign.
Furthermore, the decision to grant clemency to the inmates also highlights the importance of having a compassionate and empathetic leader in the White House. President Biden’s actions have brought hope and humanity to the inmates and their families, who have been marginalized and forgotten by society. It sends a powerful message that every life is valuable, and no one should be deprived of their fundamental rights, regardless of their past actions.
In conclusion, President Biden’s clemency for 37 inmates on federal death row has been met with great relief and gratitude by the inmates and their loved ones. The decision has not only saved the lives of these individuals but has also given them a chance to rebuild their futures. It is a step in the right direction towards ending the death penalty and promoting a more just and compassionate society. Let us hope that this decision serves as a catalyst for more positive change in the criminal justice system.
