Jun 13, 2024 - Politics & Policy

Biden rules out commuting Hunter Biden's sentence

Erin Doherty

U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during a ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery on the 80th anniversary of D-Day on June 06, 2024 in Colleville-sur-Mer, Franc — President Biden speaks during a ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery on June 6 in Colleville-sur-Mer, France. Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images

President Biden said Thursday that he will not commute Hunter Biden's eventual sentence in his federal gun trial and reaffirmed that he would not pardon his son.

Why it matters: Biden's remarks during a news conference at the G7 conference come after the White House on Wednesday appeared to not rule out a possible commutation for Hunter's sentence.

A commutation could reduce any sentence that the president's son faces while allowing his conviction to stand.

Driving the news: "I'm extremely proud of my son Hunter. He has overcome an addiction, he's one of the brightest, most decent men I know," Biden said Thursday, his first public remarks since Hunter's conviction earlier this week on three felony charges.

"I am satisfied that I'm not going to do anything — I said I'd abide by the jury decision. I will do that. And I will not pardon him," he said, per CNN.

The big picture: Biden has repeatedly affirmed his love for his son throughout the trial.

On the first day of Hunter's trial, Biden said in a statement that he has "boundless love for [his] son, confidence in him, and respect for his strength."

What to watch: Hunter's sentencing in the federal gun trial is expected to be about 120 days after the verdict was issued, so likely in October.

However, the date has not been set.

Go deeper: Biden on Hunter conviction: "I will accept the outcome of this case"

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Biden rules out commuting Hunter Biden's sentence

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