Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) expressed concern over President Joe Biden’s recent decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, suggesting it sets a “dangerous” precedent for future administrations.
In an interview on NBC News’ “Meet The Press,” Sanders acknowledged the personal dilemma Biden faced, stating, “As a father, as a parent, I think we can all understand Biden trying to protect his son and his family.” However, he cautioned that such a comprehensive pardon could lead to complications under different circumstances, noting, “It’s a very wide-open pardon which could… lead to problems in terms of future presidents.”
Bernie Sanders believes Hunter Biden pardon sets a ‘dangerous’ precedent pic.twitter.com/uSM0xQrFz0
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) December 15, 2024
President Biden’s pardon of Hunter Biden, who faced charges related to gun and tax offenses, has sparked debate across the political spectrum. Critics argue that it undermines the rule of law and could embolden future presidents to use pardons for personal or political gain. Supporters contend that the president acted out of compassion for his son, who has struggled with personal issues.
The breadth of the pardon, covering potential offenses over an extended period, is particularly contentious. Legal experts warn that it could hinder ongoing investigations and set a precedent for preemptive pardons, potentially shielding individuals from accountability.
As the nation grapples with the implications of this decision, Sanders’ remarks highlight the delicate balance between personal loyalty and public duty, raising questions about the appropriate use of presidential pardon power.