President Donald Trump rejected nearly 6,000 clemency applications, dashing hopes for a large wave of pardons tied to the nation’s 250th birthday.
Expectations had built for a significant grant of pardons and commutations in celebration of the milestone. The president, however, issued fewer than 20 clemency actions on July 3.
Among those denied were thousands of petitions that had been pending for years. Many applicants hoped for mercy in a high-profile clemency push.
The rejected applications span a wide range of cases and sentences. Advocates for criminal justice reform expressed disappointment at the limited number.
The decision returns the focus to the administration’s selective use of executive clemency. Trump has granted pardons at a relatively low rate compared to some predecessors.
Critics argue the process remains opaque and politicized. Supporters say the president exercises careful discretion in such matters.
The July 3 actions bring the total number of clemencies during Trump’s tenure to just over two dozen. The vast majority of applications will remain unresolved.
