The decision, which was first reported by NBC News, is a reversal for the president, who repeatedly said he would not use his authority to pardon his son or commute his sentence.

Summary

President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden, reversing his prior stance against using executive clemency.

The pardon covers Hunter’s federal gun conviction and tax evasion guilty plea, sparking political controversy.

Biden cited political attacks and a “miscarriage of justice” as reasons for his decision, emphasizing his son’s recovery from addiction and the targeting of his family.

Critics argue the move undermines the judicial process, while supporters view it as within Biden’s constitutional powers.

This decision shields Hunter from potential prison time as Biden nears the end of his presidency.

    • Maggoty@lemmy.world
      25·
      23 hours ago

      We have numerous examples of outed whistleblowers serving a few years in prison and then being released. Even Chelsea Manning was released early after attempting a full rip of the classified documents she had access to.

      The only reason for him to run to Russia or have a fear of his life was if he was already a Russian asset. And it’s worth noting, that’s generally a 20 year sentence, not death. Plenty of examples there too.

      • Krono@lemmy.today
        51·
        19 hours ago

        Chelsea Manning is a national hero who was tortured in US prison for 7 years. During that time she spent over a year in solitary confinement, and as a result of this internationally-condemned practice she tried to kill herself multiple times.

        If you knew you would be subject to indefinite torture, wouldnt you flee to Russia too? Why would you subject yourself to living conditions so brutal that you decide killing yourself is the best option?

        • Maggoty@lemmy.world
          13·
          14 hours ago

          She was not tortured. Or rather if she was tortured then so is every inmate. She did receive special treatment.