President Joe Biden has granted a full and unconditional pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, who was facing sentencing for federal gun and tax offenses. This surprising decision, announced on December 1, marks a notable departure from Biden's previous commitments not to use his presidential powers for family benefit.
In his statement, President Biden said, "Today, I signed a pardon for my son Hunter," describing the legal proceedings against him as a “miscarriage of justice.” He emphasized that Hunter was “selectively and unfairly prosecuted” due to his family name, asserting that political motives influenced the charges against him. "No fair-minded individual reviewing the details of Hunter's cases could conclude otherwise," Biden stated, adding that there had been a concerted effort to undermine both him and his son.
Hunter Biden was set to be sentenced on December 12 for gun-related charges and on December 16 for tax evasion. The pardon effectively nullifies these upcoming sentences, which had raised concerns about potential imprisonment. According to the White House announcement, the clemency covers any federal crimes Hunter may have committed between January 1, 2014, and December 1, 2024.
Despite earlier assurances from the White House that no pardon would be issued, Biden's decision reflects a shift in his stance. He had previously expressed confidence in the judicial process and stated he would abide by the jury's decisions. "I have faith in the justice system," he noted, but concluded that the circumstances warranted this exceptional action.
Hunter Biden expressed gratitude for the pardon, stating that his past struggles with addiction had been exploited for political gain. He remarked, "I will never take the clemency I have received today for granted and will dedicate my life to assisting those who are still struggling."
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