The decision, which was first reported by NBC News, is a reversal for the president, who repeatedly said he would not use his authority to pardon his son or commute his sentence.

Summary

President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden, reversing his prior stance against using executive clemency.

The pardon covers Hunter’s federal gun conviction and tax evasion guilty plea, sparking political controversy.

Biden cited political attacks and a “miscarriage of justice” as reasons for his decision, emphasizing his son’s recovery from addiction and the targeting of his family.

Critics argue the move undermines the judicial process, while supporters view it as within Biden’s constitutional powers.

This decision shields Hunter from potential prison time as Biden nears the end of his presidency.

  • irish_link@lemmy.world
    178·
    2 days ago

    A pretty mundane act of fatherhood. If you had the power to prevent your kid from going to jail for something that was done a 5 years ago most people would do it. It wasn’t a violent crime that he is being pardoned from so its not that much different than all the pardons Trump did in his first term for all the fraud convictions.

    • One_Honest_Dude@lemmy.worldEnglish
      3·
      2 days ago

      so its not that much different than all the pardons Trump did in his first term for all the fraud convictions.

      I’m glad we hold our leaders to such rigorous standards. As long as Trump is corrupt and using power to benefit himself it’s fine if we do it!

      Didn’t Biden say that he would not pardon Hunter? Was he lying the whole time?

      • Maggoty@lemmy.world
        4·
        2 days ago

        Pretty sure that ship sailed when the judge rejected the plea deal and said he was going to throw 25 years at Hunter.

      • irish_link@lemmy.world
        4·
        2 days ago

        Your right. It was a little bit of a “what about”ism. If they did it then why shouldn’t I isn’t the best argument. I do agree that he is going back on his word and we should hold our leaders to a higher standard.

        I guess I get a little frustrated by most dems holding their leaders to a higher standard and then their leaders resigning for it. All while nothing comes of a Republican holding office and threatening people with violence and sexual assault.