In a move that has shaken the political landscape, President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden, who at 54, faced convictions and guilty pleas related to federal gun and tax charges. This pardon, made public on December 2, 2024, was defended by Biden because his son was being subjected to "selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted."
According to the New York Post, following the pardon of his son, Senator Joe Manchin has called for President Biden to also pardon Donald Trump, equating the actions to fairness.
The decision to pardon Hunter Biden was unexpected, contradicting earlier assurances from the White House that such an action was not contemplated. The president admitted that pardoning his son was a complicated decision that could impact his legacy adversely.
Donald Trump, meanwhile, faces legal challenges across four major criminal cases. These include allegations of mishandling classified documents, efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, falsifying business records, and interfering in Georgia’s 2020 presidential election process. These charges were initiated after his declaration to run for the White House in 2024.
Senator Joe Manchin suggested that extending a pardon to Trump would provide a balance to Biden's decision to pardon his son. He stated, aiming at balance and fairness, “I am just saying, wipe them out,” adding, “Why don’t you go ahead and pardon Donald Trump for all his charges and make it, you know, it would have gone down a lot more balanced, if you will."
Biden’s decision to pardon his son has elicited widespread criticism from multiple directions. Several senators and representatives have voiced concerns over the implications of this pardon.
Senator Michael Bennet articulated that the move prioritized personal interest over duty and tarnished the perception of an equitable justice system. Similarly, Senator Gary Peters expressed concern that such actions might erode trust in government, suggesting it was an improper use of power.
Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez echoed the sentiment of a two-tier justice system, highlighting the special treatment ostensibly given to well-connected individuals. She remarked, “The President made the wrong decision. No family should be above the law.”
Moreover, Colorado Governor Jared Polis commented on the dangerous precedent this sets, enabling future presidents to misuse pardoning powers.
Despite the backlash, some understand the personal conflict involved in Biden's decision. Senator Peter Welch noted the pardon as an act of a loving father, albeit unwise for a president.
Representative Greg Landsman, sympathizing as a father himself, recognized the setback this poses for public service faith.
The implications of the president’s decision have not only affected public trust but also compounded the challenges facing Democrats. Representative Glenn Ivey expressed concerns about how this pardon would provide ammunition for future political battles, especially against the backdrop of ongoing issues from the Trump administration.
The pardoning of Hunter Biden by President Biden has triggered a multi-faceted political debate. It has been criticized as a poor precedent that could be misused by future administrations and as an instance of injustice, favoring those with connections.
On the other hand, proponents argue about the personal dilemma faced by Biden. Simultaneously, the call to pardon Donald Trump by Senator Joe Manchin introduces additional complexity to an already divisive issue, aiming for a rebalance of political and legal perceptions.