President Biden reversed his earlier stance and pardoned his son, Hunter, for gun and tax crimes, citing unfair attacks and prosecution. The decision was criticized by Republicans as a political abuse of power, with comparisons drawn to past presidential pardons, like Bill Clinton’s for his brother. Biden’s pardon is sweeping, covering past and future charges, particularly related to Hunter’s ties to Burisma,
This move raises concerns about presidential clemency being used as a political tool, with experts fearing it could undermine justice. While Biden faces little political cost due to his presidency nearing its end, the decision sets the stage for similar actions by the incoming Trump administration, which could use pardons for January 6th defendants and others. This cycle of partisan accusations is likely to deepen public distrust in the system.