In a move generating significant discussion, former President Donald Trump pardoned 24 individuals convicted under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act during the Biden administration. This announcement came just prior to the March for Life rally in Washington, D.C.
Speaking to reporters outside the White House before departing for visits to Asheville, North Carolina, and Los Angeles, Trump criticized the prosecutions, stating, "We released 24 people unjustly imprisoned due to their pro-life stance. They will be released very soon. What happened was a disgrace."
The pardoned individuals include:
- Lauren Handy
- Jonathan Darnel
- Jay Smith
- Paula Paulette Harlow
- Jean Marshall
- John Hinshaw
- Heather Idoni
- William Goodman
- Joan Bell
- Herb Geraghty
- Chester Gallagher
- Calvin Zastrow
- Coleman Boyd
- Paul Vaughn
- Dennis Green
- Eva Edl
- Eva Zastrow
- James Zastrow
- Paul Place
- Caroline Davis
- Joel Curry
- Justin Phillips
- Bevelyn Beatty Williams
- Christopher Moscinski
Anti-abortion activists at the 2022 March for Life in Washington, D.C. (AP/Jose Luis Magana)
Former President Trump in the Oval Office. (Reuters/Carlos Barria)
The Pro-Life flag. (The Pro-Life Flag Project)
This action follows Trump's pardons of certain January 6th defendants and Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht. The pardons have sparked debate, with some, like Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), arguing that the Biden administration has unfairly targeted Christians and pro-life individuals. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) is reportedly introducing legislation to repeal the FACE Act, citing concerns about its use against pro-life groups.
