On December 1, 2024, President Joe Biden officially pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, who has faced legal challenges including tax fraud and illegal possession of firearms. In a statement, Biden expressed that Hunter was treated unfairly due to his familial connection, asserting that the legal process has been influenced by politics.
Hunter Biden's legal troubles have been under investigation since 2018, culminating in a guilty plea in September 2023 for failing to pay taxes amounting to $1.4 million. His conviction for gun-related felonies occurred in June 2023, where he was found guilty of lying about drug use during a firearm purchase.
The pardon has sparked significant political backlash, notably from Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who criticized Biden for prioritizing family over national integrity. Polis stated that while he understands a father's instinct to protect his son, such actions could set a dangerous precedent for future presidencies.
As Biden travels to Angola for an official visit, the administration faces scrutiny regarding the implications of the pardon, particularly in light of ongoing investigations involving Hunter's business dealings with foreign entities.
This development comes as the Department of Justice continues to pursue charges against numerous individuals connected to the January 6 Capitol riot, with over 1,500 cases filed and many more still under investigation.