President Biden Pardons Son Hunter Ahead of Sentencing
Washington, D.C. — In a controversial move, President Joe Biden announced on Sunday night that he granted a presidential pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, protecting him from potential prison sentences for federal felony gun and tax convictions. This decision marks a significant departure from Biden’s previous statements denying any intention to intervene in his son’s legal matters.
Hunter Biden’s legal troubles began in December 2020, shortly after his father’s election victory, leading to convictions in Delaware for purchasing a firearm while allegedly under the influence of drugs, and a tax-related guilty plea involving $1.4 million in unpaid taxes. The pardon reverses earlier commitments made by President Biden, who had firmly stated in June that he would not intervene and emphasized adherence to the judicial process.
President Biden justified the pardon in light of perceived political motivations, arguing that Hunter was unfairly targeted due to his familial relationship with the president. He stated, "No reasonable person can conclude other than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son," expressing his concern over the politicization of the judicial system.
The pardon covers not only the existing charges but also any potential offenses committed by Hunter Biden from January 1, 2014, to December 1, 2024. In response, Hunter Biden expressed gratitude for the relief and a commitment to aid those suffering from addiction.
Critics, particularly from the Republican party, including Rep. James Comer, challenged the president’s decision, claiming it evades accountability for longstanding allegations against the Biden family. This move comes at a pivotal moment politically, just ahead of the anticipated return of President-elect Donald Trump to the White House.
Hunter Biden’s legal team has filed motions to dismiss the ongoing cases in California and Delaware, citing the recent pardon as a basis for their request.
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