President Joe Biden has issued a pardon for his son Hunter, who has been convicted of federal gun charges.
In a statement released by the White House, the US president said: “From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making, and I kept my word even as I have watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted.
“Without aggravating factors like use in a crime, multiple purchases, or buying a weapon as a straw purchaser, people are almost never brought to trial on felony charges solely for how they filled out a gun form.
“Those who were late paying their taxes because of serious addictions, but paid them back subsequently with interest and penalties, are typically given non-criminal resolutions.
“It is clear that Hunter was treated differently.”
Hunter Biden pleaded guilty to federal tax evasion earlier this year. He was also found guilty on charges related to gun possession and drug use.
Pic: Reuters
Hunter, 54, was convicted of three firearm charges in June, marking the first criminal prosecution of a sitting US president’s child.
Prosecutors said he lied on a form when buying a Colt Cobra revolver in October 2018 by stating he was not a drug user or addict, despite a problem with crack cocaine.
Two months later, Hunter pleaded guilty to federal tax charges. He was due to stand trial on criminal charges of failing to pay $1.4m (£1.06m) in taxes while allegedly spending lavishly on drugs, sex workers and luxury items.
It marks a U-turn from the president, who had categorically ruled out a pardon or commutation for his son.
President Biden told reporters as Hunter faced trial in the Delaware gun case: “I abide by the jury decision. I will do that and I will not pardon him.”
And as recently as 8 November – the day after Donald Trump was declared the winner in the 2024 election – White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre ruled out a pardon or clemency for Hunter.
“We’ve been asked that question multiple times,” she said. “Our answer stands, which is no.”
In the statement, released via the White House, President Biden continued to say the charges against Hunter “came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election”.