US President Joe Biden has stated that he will not pardon his son, Hunter Biden, if he is found guilty of federal gun charges, according to CNN.
In an interview with David Muir of ABC, when asked if he would rule out pardoning Hunter Biden, the President responded, “Yes.” He also confirmed that he would accept the outcome of the trial currently underway in Delaware.
The courtroom proceedings have become a painful chapter for the Biden family, particularly as Hunter has struggled with drug addiction following his brother Beau’s death. First Lady Jill Biden attended the trial before traveling to France to join her husband for D-Day commemoration activities.
Previously, the White House had made it clear that President Biden would not pardon his son. “I’ve been very clear; the President is not going to pardon his son,” press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in December, as reported by CNN.
Hunter Biden faces accusations of illegally purchasing and possessing a gun while abusing or being addicted to drugs, a federal law violation. He has pleaded not guilty to the three charges, despite being open about his struggles with alcohol and crack cocaine addiction. Special counsel David Weiss brought these charges, marking the first time in US history that the child of a sitting president has been on trial.
President Biden has consistently voiced support for his son and expressed pride in his recovery from addiction. “I am the President, but I am also a Dad. Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today,” he stated as the trial began.
“Hunter’s resilience in the face of adversity and the strength he has brought to his recovery are inspiring to us. A lot of families have loved ones who have overcome addiction and know what we mean,” he continued.
“As the President, I don’t and won’t comment on pending federal cases, but as a Dad, I have boundless love for my son, confidence in him, and respect for his strength. Our family has been through a lot together, and Jill and I are going to continue to be there for Hunter and our family with our love and support,” President Biden added.
