As President Biden's term nears its end, discussions around presidential pardons and clemency have intensified. Several high-profile cases and broader calls for criminal justice reform are at the forefront of these conversations. The recent pardon of Hunter Biden has further fueled debate and speculation about the President's approach to clemency in his final weeks in office.

Following the election, some officials, including Senator Ed Markey (D-MA), have suggested "preemptive pardons" for individuals who might face prosecution under the incoming administration. These calls are rooted in concerns about potential politically motivated prosecutions and a desire to protect those perceived as political opponents.

A separate push for clemency focuses on broader criminal justice reform. A group of Democratic lawmakers, including Representatives Ayanna Pressley, Mary Gay Scanlon, and James Clyburn, have urged President Biden to grant pardons and commutations to address what they see as systemic injustices, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly, chronically ill, and those facing excessive sentences.

The case of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange continues to draw attention. Despite a plea deal and return to Australia, some lawmakers advocate for a pardon, arguing that his prosecution sets a dangerous precedent for journalists and publishers. Representatives James McGovern (D-MA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) are leading this bipartisan effort, emphasizing the importance of protecting press freedom.

Drug offenses also feature prominently in clemency discussions. A significant portion of President Biden's pardons to date have involved drug-related convictions. Additionally, a group of senators has called for commutations for individuals sentenced under now-revised mandatory minimums, highlighting the ongoing impact of drug sentencing reform efforts.

The President's recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, has sparked controversy and raised questions about potential conflicts of interest. Despite previous statements indicating he would not intervene in his son's legal matters, President Biden granted the pardon, covering both a gun charge and tax-related offenses. This decision has drawn criticism and calls for greater transparency regarding the President's clemency decisions.