Biden’s Closing Strategies: Key Initiatives You Need to Know

President Biden’s final push includes clemency, climate action, debt relief, and AI strategy, aiming to cement his legacy before leaving office.

At a Glance

Biden plans to expand clemency programs and allocate remaining funds from key legislation
Climate initiatives and student debt relief remain top priorities
Administration focuses on responsible AI application and international cooperation
Recent actions include pardons for 39 people and commutations for nearly 1,500 others
White House aims to distribute all unspent funds before the new administration takes over

Biden’s Final Push: Clemency and Pardons

As President Joe Biden enters the last stretch of his term, he’s making significant moves in criminal justice reform. On December 12, Biden issued pardons for 39 individuals and commuted sentences for nearly 1,500 others, marking the largest single-day act of clemency in U.S. history. This action aligns with his administration’s commitment to addressing inequities in the justice system.

The President has also issued categorical pardons for marijuana-related offenses and for former military members convicted of conduct related to their sexual orientation. These actions reflect a broader strategy to use executive clemency powers to address systemic issues in the criminal justice system.

Bloomberg: Biden Plans Measures on AI, Clemency and Lands in Final Stretch https://t.co/s4y6KmfpKR

— Ben LaBolt (@WHCommsDir) December 15, 2024

Climate Action and Financial Allocation

Climate change remains a central focus of Biden’s final presidential initiatives. The administration plans to intensify efforts to protect lands and waters while continuing climate-related discussions with various leaders. This commitment is backed by significant financial resources from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the CHIPS Act.

“The President has been clear to his team that we need to make every day count, and build on the historic progress we have made,” LaBolt said in the memo. “In the coming weeks, you will see him do just that.”

Recent funding allocations include $735 million for zero-emission vehicles and $6.2 billion to Micron Technology for memory chip facilities. These investments demonstrate the administration’s commitment to both environmental sustainability and technological advancement.

Student Debt Relief and Education Initiatives

The Biden administration has made significant strides in addressing student debt, approving $175 billion in relief for nearly 5 million borrowers. This action is part of a broader strategy to make higher education more accessible and alleviate the financial burden on graduates.

The focus on education extends beyond debt relief, with the administration outlining plans to improve student achievement in 2024. These initiatives aim to address educational disparities and enhance overall academic performance across the nation.

Addressing AI Challenges

Recognizing the growing importance of artificial intelligence, Biden has issued a national security memorandum on AI. This document emphasizes the need for responsible application of AI technologies and warns of potential threats associated with their misuse.

The administration is promoting a coordinated international approach to navigate the challenges posed by new AI technologies. This strategy aims to position the United States as a leader in responsible AI development and implementation.

Looking Beyond January 2025

As the Biden administration enters its final year, there’s a concerted effort to ensure that all unspent funds are distributed before the transition to a new administration. With 98% of funds already allocated, the White House is working to maximize the impact of remaining resources.

“A Presidency is not measured just in weeks, months, or four-year terms alone—rather its impact is evaluated for years and decades to come,” LaBolt said. “The dividends of the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to transform the country long after January 20, 2025.”

This statement reflects the administration’s belief that their initiatives will have lasting effects, shaping the nation’s trajectory well beyond Biden’s term. As the President focuses on these final priorities, the true impact of his tenure may only be fully realized in the years to come.