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.

  • corsicanguppy@lemmy.caEnglish
    3015·
    21 days ago

    People who were already sure Joe was going to pardon his oddly-named son: everyone.

    Republicans overjoyed this outgoing president is now “just like” the worst human ever to run for office: all of them. “Whataboutism” is an alien term.

    Political prisoners still incarcerated left to pardon: none.

    Let the guy gather his family so he can travel far away from the despot felon and be safe in retirement. Don’t envy that he can and we can’t.

    • Cleggory@lemmy.world
      34·
      21 days ago

      Why spout nonsense misinformation like that?

      Summary of the charges and convictions of Hunter Biden:

      Gun Charge Conviction: Hunter Biden was convicted of three felony counts for lying on a federal firearms application. He pleaded guilty to making a false statement, saying he was not a drug user, and illegally possessing a firearm for 11 days.

      Tax Convictions: Hunter Biden pleaded guilty to nine federal tax charges in Los Angeles, including three felony tax offenses and six misdemeanor tax offenses. He failed to pay at least $1.4 million in self-assessed federal taxes for tax years 2016-2019 and filed false returns.

      Plea Deal: Initially, Hunter Biden pleaded guilty to the tax charges and faced a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison.