All five of us share a common thread: we’ve been convicted of federal crimes over the past twelve years and have submitted our applications for a pardon from former President Joe Biden. Unfortunately, at precisely 12:01 PM on President Trump’s inauguration day, we will receive an email notifying us that our applications have been denied and that we need to reapply under the new administration.
We’ve all finished serving our sentences, so there’s no question of needing to reduce them further. For some of us, what’s really at stake is our ability to support our families and reintegrate as productive members of our communities.
The presidential pardon has long been a source of both relief and debate. Originally, it was meant to address our flawed humanity. Just like our judicial system, which isn’t perfect, the power to pardon was created to provide justice and mercy for those who’ve erred. But concerns arise when pardons seem to reflect self-interest, particularly when granted by presidents whose intentions are questioned.
In Biden’s case, the pardons extended to close family and friends raised significant ethical and legal concerns. The issue isn’t about his right to issue these pardons but rather whether his mental state influenced the validity of those decisions. It’s quite concerning that Biden used a Nixon-era formula to provide a “complete, full, absolute, and unconditional” pardon, without citing specific misconduct that warranted it.
Reports of Biden’s memory lapses, confusion during public appearances, and struggles with unscripted dialogue have intensified doubts about his ability to make sound decisions regarding pardons. If cognitive decline plays a role, then others in similar situations may also find their pardons denied.
Biden has rejected many applications from nonviolent drug offenders and individuals seeking relief from perceived unjust sentences, despite proclaiming a commitment to criminal justice reform. Meanwhile, his family members have received pardons, raising eyebrows about potential conflicts of interest. The judicial system often denies appeals based more on procedural grounds, whereas well-connected individuals tend to benefit from executive pardons.
If there are concerns regarding Biden’s mental faculties, Congress might need to look into a competency review regarding his decisions on pardons. Those whose applications were denied deserve another shot. A fair justice system shouldn’t allow preferential treatment based on personal relationships, as that can cloud judgment.
No one questions the President’s constitutional authority when it comes to issuing pardons. However, these acts must be carried out fairly, without any undue influence. If Biden’s family has benefited from a process that doesn’t ensure his full understanding or consent, then justice demands that others should not be denied the same opportunities for mercy. We seek this respect from President Trump, not only for ourselves but for all Americans in need of forgiveness moving forward.
Warren Valentine is a former lawyer and radio host with an extensive audience. Jesse Jackson Jr. is a former Democratic representative from Illinois. Michael Cohen was previously Trump’s attorney. Michael Rothenberg has a background as a rabbi and lawyer, while Dr. Michael Jones is a cardiologist based in New Orleans. All five of us have been convicted of nonviolent federal offenses between 2013 and 2023 and have served our sentences.
