US President Joe Biden has issued a full pardon to his son Hunter Biden, who was awaiting sentencing in two criminal cases.
In a statement, President Biden criticized the handling of his son’s cases, describing them as “a grave injustice” and asserting that Hunter had been unfairly targeted.
“Since the day I assumed office, I pledged not to interfere with the Justice Department’s operations, and I upheld that commitment, even as I witnessed my son facing biased and unjust prosecution,” he stated.
Hunter Biden had previously admitted guilt to tax-related offenses in September and was convicted in June for illegal firearm possession while being a drug user. This made him the first sitting president’s child to face such legal repercussions.
The pardon, which is both complete and unconditional, follows earlier remarks from the president and the White House that clemency would not be considered.
As recently as September, the White House press secretary reiterated that President Biden had no intention of issuing a pardon for his son.
However, on Sunday night, President Biden expressed his belief that the judicial process had been compromised by politics, calling it “a serious injustice.”
“Once I reached this decision over the weekend, there was no reason to delay it any longer,” he explained. “I trust Americans will understand the reasoning behind this choice, both as a father and as their President.”
In response, Hunter Biden acknowledged the forgiveness and reflected on how his past errors, made during his struggle with severe drug addiction, had been “weaponized to disgrace and demean” his family for political gain.
“I am profoundly grateful for the clemency I received today and will dedicate my renewed life to supporting others still battling illness and adversity,” Hunter Biden pledged.
Source: BBC
