In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden has decided to grant a pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, a move expected to be announced Sunday night, according to a senior White House official with direct knowledge of the matter. The decision marks a significant reversal for the president, who has previously stated on multiple occasions that he would not use his executive powers to pardon or commute his son’s sentences.
The pardon will encompass both Hunter Biden’s federal gun charges, for which he was convicted, and his guilty plea on federal tax evasion charges. The gun charge sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 12, with the tax evasion sentencing set for Dec. 16.
Sources within the administration revealed that President Biden made the decision over the weekend after extensive discussions with senior aides. The pardon comes as Biden, 82, nears the end of his presidency with no reelection campaign to consider. Publicly, the president has consistently distanced himself from the idea of granting clemency.
In June, following Hunter Biden’s conviction on three federal gun charges, Biden unequivocally stated, “I will not pardon him,” reiterating his commitment to letting the judicial process play out. First Lady Jill Biden echoed this sentiment during a June interview, emphasizing respect for the judicial system.
Behind Closed Doors
Despite these public assertions, insiders say the possibility of a pardon has been under consideration since Hunter’s June conviction. Two individuals familiar with the internal discussions noted that while Biden publicly denied the idea, the option remained on the table, with close aides advising against making any premature decisions.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre consistently reinforced the president’s stance during press briefings, most recently stating earlier this month that the position remained unchanged.
The pardon decision comes as Republicans continue to accuse the Biden family of corruption and allege preferential treatment by the Justice Department. GOP criticism escalated after a plea deal involving Hunter collapsed in July, leading Attorney General Merrick Garland to appoint U.S. Attorney David Weiss as special counsel in the case.
The move to pardon Hunter Biden has drawn mixed reactions. Critics argue it undermines the justice system, while supporters, including former White House Counsel Neil Eggleston, argue it’s within the president’s constitutional authority. Eggleston told NBC News, “The clemency power has few limitations and certainly would extend to a Hunter Biden pardon.”
The president’s relationship with Hunter Biden, who has struggled with addiction and legal troubles, has been a focal point of political attacks. Biden has often defended his son, describing him as “one of the brightest, most decent men I know.”
While the pardon eliminates the prospect of prison time for Hunter, it undoubtedly reignites political controversy, especially as Republicans scrutinize the Justice Department’s handling of the case.
As the announcement looms, the decision underscores the tension between personal loyalty and public accountability, setting the stage for heated debates in the weeks to come.
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