Dec 02, (V7N) - On Sunday, President Joe Biden issued a full pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, who was awaiting sentencing for two criminal cases. This decision comes despite the president’s previous assurances that he would not intervene in his son's legal matters.
In a statement, President Biden defended his actions, asserting that Hunter was unfairly targeted: "No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter's cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son — and that is wrong." He maintained that the legal process was politically motivated, driven by opponents seeking to undermine his presidency.
Hunter Biden faced conviction earlier this year for lying about his drug use when purchasing a firearm and had pleaded guilty to tax evasion charges. Although he had not yet been sentenced, he faced potentially severe penalties—up to 25 years for the gun charge and 17 years for tax offenses.
The pardon raises questions about the independence of the U.S. judicial system, especially as President-elect Donald Trump has indicated plans to appoint loyalists to key roles within the FBI and Department of Justice. Critics are already drawing parallels to past presidential pardons, such as Bill Clinton’s for his half-brother and Trump’s for his son-in-law's father.
President Biden emphasized his belief in the justice system but decried what he described as "raw politics" corrupting the process. He added, “I kept my word not to interfere in Justice Department decisions, but I also believe there was a miscarriage of justice.”
This development follows the recent Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity, which has effectively stalled criminal cases against Trump, including his conviction for falsifying business records.
Hunter Biden expressed gratitude in a public statement, acknowledging his struggles with addiction and vowing to dedicate his life to helping others facing similar challenges.
END/WD/RH/
Comment: