President Joe Biden's administration has found itself at the center of controversy as it navigates the final months of his presidency, facing significant criticism over his policies and actions. From the issuing of pardons to massive military aid to foreign allies, these decisions are shaping the legacy Biden hopes to leave behind.
Among the most contentious aspects of Biden's tenure has been the announcement of an $8 billion weapons sale planned to support Israel's long-term security. This action, confirmed by a U.S. official, includes resupplying stocks of medium-range air-to-air missiles, artillery shells, Hellfire missiles, and more. Notably, this package is part of the at least $17.9 billion the U.S. has sent Israel since the onset of violence on October 7, 2023. According to Biden, "Israel has the right to defend its citizens" as they continue their military operations against Hamas in Gaza.
Despite Biden's rationale, the administration faces backlash over mounting Palestinian civilian casualties, leading to widespread criticism from activists and some lawmakers. Demonstrations on college campuses have echoed the sentiments of dissent, with notable figures like Senator Bernie Sanders attempting to block the sale of offensive weapons to Israel, but their efforts have largely fallen flat.
Days prior to the weapon sales announcement, Biden's actions drew sharp scrutiny when he commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates. Critics argue this move contradicts his previous claims to uphold justice, particularly as it spared convicted murderers who had committed heinous acts. Biden stated, "I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts," underscoring his approach to criminal justice reform.
While Biden’s administration emphasizes his commitment to reducing the death penalty's use at the federal level, the choice to exclude three high-profile inmates from commutation — including Dylann Roof, Robert Bowers, and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev — raises questions about the consistency of his message. Administration officials explained the exclusion of these individuals as grounded in their hate-motivated mass murder convictions.
Biden's ambitious agenda also includes the controversial use of federal executive power. He has issued numerous pardons and is recognized as the first president to issue categorical pardons for certain non-violent offenses, such as marijuana possession, and to former LGBTQI+ service members persecuted due to their sexual orientation. This push for criminal justice reform, particularly seen through the lens of racial equity and fairness, has garnered praise from advocates and lawmakers alike. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley commended the commutation for its "historic and groundbreaking act of compassion."
Alongside these developments, Biden's administration has faced criticism over environmental policies and alleged favoritism toward certain groups. Critics label some of his actions as political paybacks, particularly concerning billions allocated to environmental projects perceived as favored. These financial maneuvers coincide with Biden's need to craft a favorable narrative of his presidency, with many observers noting the historical parallels between his and former President Jimmy Carter's legacies.
Recent actions by the Biden administration also include measures aimed at infrastructure and economic reform, alongside mixed results on controlling inflation rates. Biden’s promise of economic revitalization through significant spending initiatives has been overshadowed by rising inflation and public dissatisfaction. Reports indicate inflation rates exceeding 15%, undermining Biden’s economic accomplishments and leading to historically low approval ratings for his handling of the economy.
While his administration's ambitious policies were meant to portray him as a transformative leader akin to Franklin D. Roosevelt, the reality has been far from ideal. Many regard Biden as out of touch with the average American's struggles, with reports claiming he privately believes he would have beaten Trump had he stayed competitive. His disconnect with current events, especially following his handling of inflation, has become increasingly evident.
Reflecting on the themes of legacy, Biden's actions are potentially informed by historical precedents, particularly as he confronts the echoes of Carter's presidency. At the recent state funeral for Carter, Biden's remarks and overall reverence for the former president brought to light his awareness of legacy and the public's perception of his own administration.
With winter arriving and dire humanitarian conditions worsening, there is anticipation concerning how Biden's administration will continue to respond to both international and national challenges. The complexity of his final moves aims to reshape public perception as he seeks to solidify his place within American history. The administration’s dual efforts to navigate foreign policy alongside domestic expectations have created a precarious position as he approaches the end of his term.
The Biden administration’s actions constitute both ambitious reforms and contentious decisions, each shaping the narrative of his presidency. The contrasting reception of these measures—from military aid to criminal justice reform—paints a picture of challenges still to come, as Biden's hope for redemption plays out against the backdrop of historical significance and current societal needs.