Biden expresses hope for public support on son’s pardon

President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden, reversing earlier refusals to grant clemency. Hunter faced sentencing for tax fraud and illegal firearm possession. Biden defended the decision, calling the cases a “miscarriage of justice” influenced by politics. He stated he upheld the Justice Department’s independence but acted as both a father and president to correct what he deemed unfair prosecution.

Hunter Biden had pleaded guilty to tax fraud in September and was convicted in June for illegal gun possession while using drugs. The charges could have led to decades in prison. Sentencing was set for December before the pardon. Biden expressed hope Americans would understand his decision, emphasizing his belief in justice despite the political context.

The pardon drew criticism. President-elect Donald Trump called it an abuse of power, comparing it to cases of January 6 rioters. Biden, however, maintained the move was necessary and timely, stating he wrestled with the choice before acting decisively.

Hunter Biden admitted past mistakes tied to addiction, thanking his father for the clemency. He pledged to help others struggling with similar issues. Biden highlighted his son’s five-and-a-half years of sobriety as a testament to his recovery journey.

This isn’t the first instance of a president pardoning family. Bill Clinton pardoned his brother in 2001, and Donald Trump pardoned his son-in-law’s father in 2020. Biden’s move, however, reignites debates over using presidential pardons for family.

The decision comes as Biden exits office after withdrawing from the 2024 election race. He endorsed Kamala Harris, who lost to Trump in November. Trump is set to take office in January, with Hunter’s legal issues casting a shadow over Biden’s presidency.

Critics and supporters alike now watch the fallout from Biden’s unprecedented pardon, which marks a controversial chapter in his legacy.