Special Poll
- President Biden Pardons Hunter Biden
- Announced Sunday, President Joe Biden signed a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, clearing him in two federal cases.
- Biden argued the charges were politically motivated, stating, “Hunter was singled out only because he is my son — and that is wrong.”
- Details of Hunter Biden’s Cases
- In June, Hunter Biden was found guilty of three felony charges related to a 2018 gun purchase, where he concealed drug use.
- In September, he pleaded guilty to nine federal tax charges, avoiding trial.
- Biden’s Justification for the Pardon
- Biden emphasized his belief in justice but criticized the process as politically influenced.
- “Raw politics has infected this process, leading to a miscarriage of justice,” Biden said.
- He argued Hunter was treated unfairly, pointing out that most in similar situations do not face felony charges.
- Hunter Biden’s Response
- Hunter, 54, expressed gratitude, vowing to use his second chance to help others in recovery.
- He acknowledged mistakes during his addiction but highlighted his five-and-a-half years of sobriety, crediting his faith, family, and friends.
- Political Fallout
- President-elect Donald Trump called the pardon “an abuse and miscarriage of justice.”
- Trump allies criticized Biden for alleged preferential treatment and politicization of the justice system.
- Hunter Biden’s Legal Background
- A plea deal related to his gun charges collapsed under judicial scrutiny.
- GOP lawmakers criticized the handling of his tax case, alleging delays and leniency.
- U.S. Attorney David Weiss, overseeing the case, was later appointed special counsel.
- Broader Political Implications
- Hunter’s overseas business dealings have been a focal point of Republican criticism.
- House Republicans linked Hunter’s legal troubles to their impeachment inquiry into President Biden, though without direct evidence of wrongdoing by the president.
- Hunter’s Future
- Attorneys filed the pardon notice in both cases, seeking dismissal of indictments.
- Hunter vowed to rebuild his life and use his experiences to support others.