Hunter Biden’s Pardon Draws Bipartisan Criticism, Some Praise

President Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden on Sunday of federal gun, drug and tax charges, drawing both praise and criticism from across the spectrum, including some Democrats in Congress.

For Context: The pardon is “full and unconditional,” for “offenses against the United States which he has committed or may have committed or taken part in during the period from January 1, 2014 through December 1, 2024,” though the president previously declared he would not pardon his son. Hunter Biden was scheduled to be sentenced for gun and tax charges in December. 

Key Quote: “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… I believe in the justice system, but as I have wrestled with this, I also believe raw politics has infected this process and it led to a miscarriage of justice…” President Biden stated. 

How the Media Covered It: Opinions across the spectrum were largely critical of President Biden’s use of power to pardon his son, with some drawing parallels between the president and President-elect Donald Trump, who said in October that he “wouldn’t take [pardoning Hunter Biden] off the books.” Mark Weaver (Lean Right bias) for Newsweek (Center bias) stated, “In announcing the pardon, the president essentially claimed—without acknowledging the irony in his words—that the charges against this son were somehow trumped up by his own Justice Department.” Another Newsweek writer said it was "the right thing done the wrong way." Rex Huppke (Left bias) said Biden "flat-out destroyed his legacy."  On the other hand, some opinions showed support for Biden’s decision by criticizing the "failing justice system."  Editor's Note: Updated to reflect a wider spread of perspectives.