President-elect Donald Trump has condemned President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, labeling it an “abuse and miscarriage of justice.” This criticism follows Biden’s issuance of a sweeping pardon for Hunter, covering potential crimes over an 11-year period, just weeks before leaving office.
Trump expressed his disapproval on social media, questioning whether the pardon extended to individuals incarcerated for their involvement in the January 6 Capitol incident. He stated, “Does the Pardon given by Joe to Hunter include the J-6 Hostages, who have now been imprisoned for years? Such an abuse and miscarriage of Justice!”
A spokesperson for Trump further criticized the move, asserting that it exemplifies the weaponization of the justice system by Democratic authorities. The spokesperson emphasized Trump’s commitment to restoring due process upon his return to the White House, reflecting the mandate from the American electorate.
The pardon has ignited significant controversy, especially given President Biden’s previous assurances that he would not intervene in his son’s legal matters. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre had reiterated this stance as recently as early November, stating, “We’ve been asked that question multiple times and our answer stands — which is no.”
Hunter Biden, 54, was facing sentencing for federal gun and tax offenses, with potential prison time. In June, he was convicted on three felony counts related to firearm possession while being a drug addict. Subsequently, in September, he pleaded guilty to federal tax crimes. The presidential pardon nullifies these convictions, sparking debates about the equitable application of justice and the appropriate use of executive clemency.