Did the First Lady Persuade President Biden to Pardon Her Son Hunter

What is the story

Outgoing President of the United States Joe Biden granted a full and unconditional pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, for crimes including illegal gun possession and federal tax evasion charges.

Reports indicate that First Lady Jill Biden may have played a role in this decision.

CNNJeff Zeleny of Jeff Zeleny said, “Obviously there was pressure within the family,” adding that Jill supported the clemency decision.

Hunter Biden’s Legal Troubles and Jill’s Public Support

Hunter was convicted in June of lying on a federal form while purchasing a gun in 2018.

He also pleaded guilty to tax evasion charges, accused of evading $1.4 million in taxes while living lavishly.

These incidents occurred during a time when Hunter struggled with drug addiction before becoming sober in 2019.

The First Lady publicly supported the pardon, saying, “Of course I support the pardon of my son.”

Pardon sparks debate over presidential powers

The move sparked debate because Joe had previously pledged not to use presidential powers to benefit the family.

In June 2024, he said he would respect the jury’s decision regarding his son’s trial.

Zeleny claimed that President Biden “wasn’t sure” about the pardon and suggested that the First Lady’s support could have been the deciding factor.

Criticism and accusations follow Hunter’s pardon

This pardon has attracted criticism from all sides. President-elect Donald Trump this is a “miscarriage of justice”.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis was disappointed, saying it sets a “bad precedent” and sullies Biden’s name.

Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet also echoed concerns about eroding public trust in the justice system.

Republican lawmakers called the pardon a violation of Joe’s promise to stay out of Hunter’s legal troubles.

Republican lawmakers accuse Joe of hypocrisy

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene called Hunter a criminal and accused Joe of hypocrisy.

Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley was shocked by the pardon, given Biden’s previous assurances.

Rep. James Comer accused Joe of lying about his family’s activities and criticized the lack of accountability.

Arizona Rep. Andy Biggs called Hunter a criminal and Joe corrupt.

The controversy surrounding the pardon continues to attract attention from both sides of the political scene, as well as that of celebrities.