Breaking News: Biden Pardons His Son Hunter

President Joe Biden's decision to pardon his son Hunter has sparked intense political and public debate, given his earlier promises not to use his pardon powers in this way. Here’s a breakdown of what the pardon entails, its implications, and the context surrounding it:

What Does the Pardon Cover?

• The pardon is sweeping, forgiving Hunter Biden’s convictions for:
  • Lying on a federal gun purchase form (2018).
  • Tax offences, including avoiding over $1.4 million in taxes.
• It also covers any federal offences Hunter Biden may have committed from January 1, 2014, to December 1, 2024.
• Importantly, the pardon only applies to federal offences and does not affect any potential state-level charges.

Background on the Convictions

1. Gun Charge: Hunter Biden falsely claimed on a federal form that he was not using drugs at the time of purchasing a firearm, a charge carrying a potential 25-year prison sentence.
2. Tax Charges: He admitted to avoiding significant tax payments during a period of heavy drug and alcohol use. The charges could have led to 17 years in prison, though federal sentencing guidelines suggested a far lighter sentence or even probation.

These cases were scheduled for sentencing this month, with uncertainty around whether prosecutors would seek prison time.

Why the Pardon?

President Biden cited selective prosecution as the primary reason, arguing that Hunter Biden was unfairly targeted due to his family ties. His statement also suggested that political pressure influenced the cases and that attacks on Hunter were intended to harm the president himself.

Biden’s motivations may also be tied to:

• The end of his political career: Having dropped out of the 2024 presidential race in June, he no longer faces the same political pressures.
• Concerns about politicisation of justice: The president expressed frustration with what he viewed as politically motivated scrutiny and attacks on his family.

Reversal of Prior Promises

President Biden had previously pledged not to pardon Hunter. As recently as November 8, the White House reiterated this position. His decision to go back on his word has drawn criticism, especially given his emphasis on restoring norms and respect for the rule of law.

Historical Precedents

Presidents have historically used pardon powers to benefit friends and family:

• Donald Trump: Pardoned Charles Kushner (father-in-law of Jared Kushner) and allies involved in the Russia investigation.
• Bill Clinton: Pardoned his half-brother Roger for drug charges and business associate Susan McDougal (Whitewater scandal).
• Richard Nixon: Was famously pardoned by Gerald Ford after Watergate.

These cases demonstrate the broad and often controversial use of presidential clemency.

What Happens Next?

• Hunter Biden is now protected from any federal legal consequences tied to his actions during the covered period. However, he remains vulnerable to state-level investigations or charges.
• The pardon does not remove the intense scrutiny on Hunter’s foreign business dealings, which Republicans have used to attack the Biden family’s integrity.

This pardon adds a complex chapter to Joe Biden’s presidency. While legally sound under the U.S. Constitution, it comes with significant political risks, especially as it reinforces perceptions of a politically polarised justice system.
Edited by Evans Momodu
Source: AP Image: ABC