President Biden pardons son Hunter, citing selective prosecution in federal tax and gun cases

President Biden pardons Hunter Biden, sparking political debate over justice and family loyalty.

President Joe Biden has issued a full and unconditional pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, absolving him of federal tax and gun-related convictions as well as any potential federal offenses committed between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024. The pardon comes as Biden prepares to leave office following his 2024 election defeat to Donald Trump.

The decision effectively cancels Hunter Biden's scheduled sentencing hearings in December, shielding him from potential prison time. In a statement, President Biden justified his decision by claiming his son was "selectively and unfairly prosecuted," alleging that the charges were politically motivated by his adversaries.

The pardon also extends to Hunter Biden's controversial business dealings during his tenure on the board of Ukrainian energy company Burisma and other overseas activities in China. Critics have previously questioned the legitimacy of these endeavors, while Trump and Republican lawmakers have consistently called for further investigations into Hunter Biden's international dealings.

Hunter Biden, convicted earlier this year of illegally purchasing a firearm while struggling with addiction and pleading guilty to multiple tax offenses, expressed gratitude for the clemency. He pledged to dedicate his life to supporting others grappling with addiction, framing his legal troubles as politically charged attacks.

This move marks a significant reversal for President Biden, who had repeatedly promised not to intervene in his son’s legal cases. However, White House sources indicate that the president was influenced by his belief that the legal proceedings against Hunter were intended to harm him politically. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans, with Trump labeling the pardon as a "miscarriage of justice."

This marks a rare instance of a U.S. president issuing clemency for a close family member, aligning Biden with past presidents like Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, who also faced scrutiny for similar actions.