
President Donald Trump has pardoned 23 pro-life activists convicted under the Biden administration, arguing that their prosecution was an abuse of power and an attack on free speech. The pardons were announced Thursday, just before thousands of pro-life supporters arrived in Washington, D.C., for the annual March for Life event.
Trump criticized the Biden administration for targeting peaceful demonstrators while ignoring violent attacks on churches and pregnancy centers. “These individuals should never have been prosecuted,” Trump said while signing the pardons. “This is about free speech and standing up for what is right.”
Among those pardoned is Bevelyn Williams, who received a 41-month prison sentence for blocking access to an abortion facility in New York City. Other activists, including Heather Idoni and Jonathan Darnell, faced similar penalties for protesting outside clinics in Washington, D.C., and Tennessee.
"Should not have been prosecuted"
Trump pardons 23 pro-life activists charged under the FACE Act @DailyCaller pic.twitter.com/Vk1SfHPpw6
— Nicole Silverio (@NicoleMSilverio) January 23, 2025
Legal representatives from the Thomas More Society had petitioned for the activists’ release, arguing that their convictions were politically motivated and unconstitutional. Pro-life groups and Republican lawmakers have hailed Trump’s decision, with many calling it a step toward justice for those unjustly prosecuted.
Congratulations to @MrsBevelynW on being pardoned by President Trump!
Bev never should have been jailed! The Biden regime prosecuted her & jailed her for PRAYING outside an abortion clinic.
May this sweet woman find peace and comfort with her family. pic.twitter.com/fVrBISrLPR
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) January 24, 2025
In response to the pardons, Rep. Chip Roy of Texas reintroduced a bill to repeal the FACE Act, which has been used to prosecute pro-life activists while failing to hold accountable those responsible for attacks on religious institutions. Sen. Mike Lee echoed these concerns and pledged to push for legislative action to prevent future abuses.
Bevelyn Beatty Williams has just been pardoned by President Donald J. Trump. PRAISE THE LORD pic.twitter.com/AzISoDGoBr
— speaknsee (@speaknsee) January 23, 2025
Trump’s move reinforces his commitment to supporting pro-life advocates and defending their constitutional rights, a promise he made during his 2024 campaign. The pardons signal a shift in federal priorities as the administration seeks to reverse what it views as politically driven legal actions from the previous administration.
The March for Life rally is expected to draw significant attention, with pro-life leaders expressing renewed hope following Trump’s decisive action.