Joe Biden Pardons His Son Following Convictions

President Joe Biden has pardoned his son Hunter for federal gun and tax charges, sparking controversy and debate across the nation.

At a Glance

President Biden pardoned Hunter Biden for illegal gun possession and tax charges on December 1, 2024.
The pardon covers a federal firearm case and nine tax charges, including $1.4 million in unpaid taxes.
Biden cited “raw politics” as the reason for what he calls a “miscarriage of justice” in Hunter’s case.
The decision contradicts Biden’s earlier promises not to use presidential powers to benefit family members.
The pardon was issued less than two months before Biden leaves office.

Biden’s Controversial Decision

President Joe Biden has pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, for federal gun and tax charges. The pardon, announced on December 1, 2024, covers Hunter’s conviction for illegal gun possession while addicted to narcotics and his failure to pay $1.4 million in taxes. This decision marks a significant shift from Biden’s previous stance, as he had repeatedly stated he would not pardon his son.

The President justified his action by citing what he perceives as political interference in the judicial process. In a statement, Biden expressed his belief that “raw politics” had infected the proceedings, leading to what he termed a “miscarriage of justice.” This rationale has been met with skepticism from both sides of the political aisle, with many questioning the appropriateness of a president pardoning a close family member.

JUST IN: President Joe Biden has pardoned his son Hunter on gun, tax charges. https://t.co/tNiGcds57X

— 12 News (@12News) December 2, 2024

Timeline of Hunter Biden’s Legal Troubles

Hunter Biden’s legal woes have been a constant source of controversy for the Biden administration. The saga began on December 9, 2020, when Hunter acknowledged being under investigation for tax affairs. What followed was a series of events that culminated in his conviction and subsequent pardon.

Key moments in this timeline include the appointment of David Weiss as special counsel in August 2023, Hunter’s indictment on gun charges in September 2023, and his conviction on these charges in June 2024. The timeline also includes a failed plea deal in July 2023 and Hunter’s guilty plea to tax charges in September 2024.

Public and Political Reaction

The reaction to Biden’s decision has been swift and divided. Supporters of the President argue that Hunter Biden has been unfairly targeted due to his father’s position, while critics see the pardon as a clear abuse of presidential power.

Ashley Biden, Hunter’s sister, reacted by thanking her father for issuing the pardon, arguing that the case against her brother was “politically motivated.”

Republicans have been particularly vocal in their criticism, with some calling for investigations into the decision-making process behind the pardon. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer accused Biden of lying, saying he lied about not pardoning his son just as he did about not meeting with Hunter’s business associates.

Implications for the Biden Presidency

This controversial pardon comes at a critical time for President Biden, as he prepares to leave office. It raises questions about his legacy and the potential impact on his party’s chances in future elections. The decision also highlights the ongoing debate about the extent of presidential pardon powers and whether they should be subject to greater oversight or limitations.