Biden Pardons Son Hunter

Above: Joe Biden and Hunter during the first day of the Democratic National Convention at the United Center on Aug. 19, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Image copyright: Andrew Harnik/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Facts

  • US Pres. Joe Biden issued a full and unconditional pardon for his son Hunter on Sunday, covering federal gun and tax convictions as well as potential offenses from January 2014 through December 2024.

  • In a statement, Biden said, "In trying to break Hunter, they've tried to break me — and there's no reason to believe it will stop here. Enough is enough."


The Spin

Democratic narrative

Hunter Biden's prosecution was politically motivated and unfair, targeting him solely because of his relationship with the president. The charges were unusually harsh for cases involving tax payment delays and gun form violations, especially considering Hunter's documented struggle with addiction and subsequent recovery.

Republican narrative

The pardon represents an abuse of presidential power and breaks Biden's repeated promises to the American public. This action undermines the justice system's integrity and sets a dangerous precedent for future presidents to protect family members from legal consequences.


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