Trump Vows to Expand Death Penalty After Biden Commutes 37 Federal Death Row Sentences

The Biden administration has prioritized a shift away from the death penalty in favor of life sentences without parole.

President-elect Donald Trump speaks at AmericaFest in Phoenix on Dec. 22, 2024. Rick Scuteri/AP Photo

President-elect Donald Trump said on Dec. 24 that he plans to direct the Department of Justice (DOJ) to pursue the death penalty against the worst violent offenders.

His remarks came a day after outgoing President Joe Biden commuted the sentences of 37 death row prisoners to life in prison, including several mass murderers and child killers.