President-elect Donald Trump has criticized President Joe Biden’s pardon of his son Hunter Biden, tying it to the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. Trump suggested that those charged in the riot should also receive pardons, calling them “hostages.” House Speaker Mike Johnson condemned the pardon, claiming it damaged trust in the justice system. President Biden defended the pardon, stating that his son was unfairly prosecuted due to political influences.
Hunter Biden was convicted of federal tax and gun charges, and his plea bargain fell apart in 2023, leading to his sentencing. President Biden signed the pardon, arguing that Hunter Biden was selectively and unfairly prosecuted. He emphasized his son’s more than five years of sobriety as a reason for the clemency. The pardon came after months of denials from the White House that such an action would be taken.
Democratic reactions to the pardon were mixed, with some officials calling it warranted while others believed it set a bad precedent. The Hunter Biden investigation began during the Trump administration and eventually led to his convictions. President Trump has considered pardoning defendants in the Capitol riot, claiming they are political prisoners.
Overall, the pardon of Hunter Biden by President Biden has sparked controversy and divided opinions, with both Republicans and Democrats weighing in on the decision. President Biden defended the pardon, citing his son’s progress and the alleged political influences on his prosecution.
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