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“I’m not going anywhere,” President Biden told churchgoers in South Carolina on Sunday, vowing to remain in public life after leaving the White House.
On his last full day in office, Biden traveled to Charleston, South Carolina, to speak at the Royal Missionary Baptist Church in an early celebration of Martin Luther King Day.
On the topic of pardons, Biden praised the fact that he has granted more commutations and individual pardons than “any president in U.S. history,” adding that by commuting most sentences to life in prison without parole, he has “reduced the federal death penalty.” He added that he also wants to see it abolished. The president also commuted the sentences of individuals who “served disproportionately severe, long, and harsh sentences for nonviolent drug offenses,” served time, or served a significant period of time in prison and “demonstrated significant remorse and remorse.” He said he had shown “mercy” to individuals. Rehabilitation. ”
Biden pardons four people, including late black activist Marcus Garvey
President Biden speaks during a service at Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston, South Carolina, Sunday, January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
“These decisions are difficult, some of which have never been made before, but in my experience, the best way to unite justice and mercy in the light of conscience is to bear witness as a nation and support the people. I believe that it is necessary to understand pain and not turn away, but to act on it. I will strive to show that it is possible to turn pain into purpose and lead people and nations to the day of salvation.” Biden said. “We know that the fight to restore the soul of this nation is difficult and continuing.”
“This is the shore between danger and possibility. But faith, faith, tells us that the America of our dreams is always closer than we think. It’s a belief we have to hold on to until this Saturday. We have to keep hope alive. We have to stay engaged. We have to keep the faith for a better day to come,” Biden said, adding, “I’m not going anywhere. No… South Carolinians, thank you for keeping the faith.” It has been the honor of my life to serve as your President. ”
President Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, and Congressman James Clyburn attend a service at Royal Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston on Sunday, January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarborough)
“As I conclude this journey with you, I am as passionate about our work as I was as a 29-year-old kid when I was elected,” Biden added. “I’m not tired at all.”
How to watch President Trump’s 2025 Presidential Inauguration on January 20th
Biden, who turned 82 in November, must return to Washington, D.C., on Monday to attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
After a dismal performance in debates against Trump over the summer, Biden suspended his re-election campaign amid serious concerns within the Democratic Party about his age and mental fitness.
“It has been the honor of my life to serve as your president,” President Biden told a North Charleston congregation on Sunday, January 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough)
Vice President Kamala Harris led the Democratic nomination to replace Biden, but lost decisively to Trump in November.
Biden was the oldest U.S. president to take the oath of office four years ago. Trump, 78, will surpass that record by several months on Monday.
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Early Sunday, Biden granted pardons to five additional people, including one for political activist and black supremacist Marcus Garvey.
Daniel Wallace is a breaking news and political reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to danielle.wallace@fox.com and X: @danimwallace.
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