The decision, which was first reported by NBC News, is a reversal for the president, who repeatedly said he would not use his authority to pardon his son or commute his sentence.

Summary

President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden, reversing his prior stance against using executive clemency.

The pardon covers Hunter’s federal gun conviction and tax evasion guilty plea, sparking political controversy.

Biden cited political attacks and a “miscarriage of justice” as reasons for his decision, emphasizing his son’s recovery from addiction and the targeting of his family.

Critics argue the move undermines the judicial process, while supporters view it as within Biden’s constitutional powers.

This decision shields Hunter from potential prison time as Biden nears the end of his presidency.

  • Flying Squid@lemmy.world
    1317·
    25 days ago

    Because the Supreme Court essentially gave Biden to do whatever the hell he wanted and he would be able to do it legally unless congress got together and said it was not an official presidential act and this was up to and including killing political opponents, since it was what Trump’s lawyers successfully argued.

    And what he decided to do instead was use his already existing legal power to keep his son out of prison.

    Edit: To clarify, I’m not suggesting he should have killed Trump. I’m saying he has the power to do whatever he wants essentially and this is what he decides to do.

    • nexguy@lemmy.world
      1·
      25 days ago

      Trump did this with his own family at the end of his term… didn’t need any extra powers to do it.

      • Flying Squid@lemmy.world
        3·
        25 days ago

        That was my point. He could have done something big, but this is what he’s decided to do instead, he’s just proven himself to be totally self-serving.