In a decision that has sparked national debate, President Joe Biden announced on Friday that he has pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, amid ongoing legal challenges. The move comes after Hunter faced mounting scrutiny over tax issues and firearm-related charges, as well as years of intense public focus on his business dealings.
The White House issued a statement saying the pardon was granted “to protect Hunter from being a pawn in a politically charged environment and to ensure justice and fairness.” President Biden emphasized that the pardon was a deeply personal decision, driven by his love for his family and a desire to shield his son from what he described as “unrelenting political attacks.”
Hunter Biden pleaded guilty earlier this year to two misdemeanor tax offenses and had reached a deal to avoid prosecution on a gun-related charge. However, the agreement fell apart, leading to fresh legal uncertainty and fueling partisan criticism. Republicans have accused the Justice Department of giving Hunter preferential treatment and have launched investigations into the Biden family’s business dealings.
“This was not an easy decision,” President Biden said in a brief statement to the press. “As a father, I have watched my son face challenges with courage and accountability. But as president, I also see how his case has been weaponized for political gain, and I believe this is the right thing to do for him and for our family.”
The pardon has drawn sharp reactions from across the political spectrum. Republicans quickly condemned the move as an abuse of presidential power. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer called the pardon “an affront to justice and a slap in the face to every American who believes in accountability.” Meanwhile, some Democrats have offered measured support, framing the decision as an act of compassion.
Legal experts note that while the president’s power to issue pardons is absolute under the Constitution, the political implications of pardoning a family member are significant. “This is rare and unprecedented territory,” said University of Virginia law professor Carl Tobias. “It raises questions about impartiality and public perception, even if the action itself is lawful.”
The White House declined to elaborate further, with Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterating the president’s belief in “the importance of standing by one’s family during difficult times.”