U.S. President Joe Biden has granted a presidential pardon to his son, Hunter Biden, who faced convictions for making false statements during a gun background check, illegal firearm possession, and tax-related offenses.

In a formal statement, President Biden defended his decision, characterizing the charges as politically motivated. He emphasized his dual responsibilities as a father and president in making the controversial move.

The pardon comes just weeks ahead of Hunter Biden’s sentencing for the gun case and his guilty plea on tax charges. This development also occurs less than two months before President-elect Donald Trump is set to assume the presidency once again.

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Hunter Biden had revealed in December 2020 that he was under federal investigation concerning his business dealings in China and allegations of tax and money laundering violations. In June 2024, he was convicted in a Delaware federal court on three felony counts related to a 2018 gun purchase.

President-elect Trump criticized the pardon, calling it a “miscarriage of justice.” He further questioned if others, including January 6 Capitol rioters, might receive similar clemency in the future.