
President Donald Trump has officially pardoned 23 pro-life advocates who were prosecuted under the Biden administration, fulfilling a key campaign promise to correct what he called politically motivated attacks. The announcement comes just ahead of the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C.
Speaking from the White House, Trump condemned the prosecutions, describing them as “ridiculous” and emphasizing that many of those convicted were elderly and should never have faced such charges. Among the individuals granted clemency were Lauren Handy and Paulette Harlow, both sentenced for participating in peaceful demonstrations outside abortion facilities.
The activists had been charged under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act, a federal law criticized by conservatives for being used disproportionately against pro-life protesters while ignoring violence against churches and crisis pregnancy centers. The Thomas More Society, a legal advocacy group, submitted petitions for their release and welcomed Trump’s action.
"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
Pro-life organizations and lawmakers have praised the decision, with Republican Rep. Chip Roy of Texas and Sen. Mike Lee of Utah pushing for the repeal of the FACE Act, arguing that it has been weaponized to silence opposition to abortion. Lee reintroduced legislation this week aimed at abolishing the law and preventing future misuse.
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
The pardons are expected to energize the pro-life movement as supporters gather in the nation’s capital to advocate for stronger protections for the unborn and those who speak on their behalf. Many have expressed gratitude to Trump for taking swift action to uphold their rights.
Bevelyn Beatty Williams has just been pardoned by President Donald J. Trump. PRAISE THE LORD pic.twitter.com/AzISoDGoBr
— speaknsee (@speaknsee) January 23, 2025
The Biden administration had brought an unprecedented number of cases against pro-life activists, with nearly 60 prosecutions filed under the FACE Act, compared to fewer than 100 cases since the law’s enactment in 1994. Critics argue that these cases were part of a broader effort to intimidate conservative voices.