President Joe Biden has consistently refuted claims that he intends to grant a pardon to his son Hunter regarding his gun and tax evasion convictions or to commute what appears to be a significant prison sentence.
On the Sunday evening following Thanksgiving, while the American public was focused on other matters, he revealed that he had reconsidered his position.
“An effort has been made to undermine Hunter, who has maintained five and a half years of sobriety despite facing relentless attacks and what he describes as selective prosecution,” he stated in a press release regarding his decision.
“In their efforts to undermine Hunter, they have also sought to undermine me – and there is no indication that this will cease anytime soon.” “Enough is enough.”
The president’s rationale may resonate with those who have heard Donald Trump criticize the American justice system in recent years.
As he departed the White House in 2021, Trump granted several pardons to his close associates and allies, many of whom were embroiled in various criminal investigations during his presidency.
In this action, he circumvented the established protocols of the White House regarding the exercise of the expansive presidential pardon authority. Despite facing criticism for the action at the time, the political fallout was minimal, if it existed at all.
Biden faces potential criticism for allegedly breaking his promise and utilizing his presidential authority to safeguard his son. Jared Polis, the Democratic governor of Colorado, promptly expressed his disappointment, asserting that the decision would tarnish the reputation of the outgoing president.
As Biden’s political career nears its end, he will face minimal consequences for his actions. As the nation braces for the transition, all eyes will soon return to the impending Trump administration.
The framework surrounding presidential pardoning, including the processes and established guidelines that previously shaped its application, has undergone significant and lasting changes. There are limited reasons for individuals to voice complaints, regardless of their political affiliations.
The Trump campaign swiftly reacted to the announcement of the Biden pardon, asserting that the president-elect aims to reform the US justice system and reinstate due process during his upcoming term.
As Trump prepares for a potential return to office, observers note that he will likely leverage his pardoning power again. This move could benefit associates who faced prosecution during the Biden administration, as well as supporters convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol.
