Jun 6, 2024 - Politics & Policy

Biden rules out pardon for son Hunter

Ivana Saric

Joe Biden delivers remarks on an executive order limiting asylum in the East Room of the White House on June 04, — Joe Biden at the White House on June 4. Photo: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

President Biden told ABC News' David Muir in an interview Thursday that he will not issue a pardon for his son Hunter Biden if he is convicted.

Why it matters: The president's son is currently standing trial on three felony gun charges that could carry a sentence of up to 25 years in jail if he is found guilty.

The big picture: During the interview, which took place during Biden's trip to Normandy to commemorate the anniversary of D-Day, Biden said he intends to accept the outcome of his son's trial, ABC News reported.

Asked if he would rule out issuing a pardon for his son, Biden replied, "yes."

Zoom in: Biden issued a statement of support for Hunter Biden on Monday as the trial got underway, saying he had "boundless love" for him.

Yet the trial has also been emotionally taxing for the Biden family, with different members set to testify for both the prosecution and defense.

State of play: Prosecutors have accused Hunter Biden of making false statements on a form when he bought a gun in 2018 and possession of a gun while using a narcotic.

He pleaded not guilty to all charges last October.
His lawyers had attempted to negotiate a plea deal ahead of his indictment, but the proposed deal collapsed.

Go deeper: Hunter's first felony trial becomes Biden v. Biden

Add Axios on Google

Biden rules out pardon for son Hunter

What to read next