President-elect Donald Trump had a bold prediction in October: President Biden would pardon his son, Hunter.
During a campaign rally in Arizona, Trump spoke to Fox News’ Bill Melugin. When asked if he’d pardon Hunter Biden for unity, Trump was clear.
“I wouldn’t do anything that would be over in terms of Hunter. It’s a sad situation,” Trump said.
He didn’t stop there. “I’ll bet you the father probably pardons him, let’s see what happens. But he’s a bad boy, no question about it,” he added.
On Sunday, President Biden accused Republicans of unfair tactics. He defended his son and announced his decision to pardon him.
Hunter Biden was convicted earlier this year in Delaware on three felony firearm charges. In September, he also pleaded guilty to several felony tax offenses.
President Biden explained his decision in a statement. “From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making,” he said. “I kept my word, even as I watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted.”
Biden highlighted the rarity of such charges. “Without aggravating factors like use in a crime or multiple purchases, people are rarely brought to trial for how they filled out a gun form,” he said. “Those with serious addictions who pay back taxes with penalties are typically given non-criminal resolutions.”
The president also spoke about Hunter’s struggles. He urged Americans to empathize. “Understand why a father and a President would come to this decision,” he said.
“There has been an effort to break Hunter, who’s been five and a half years sober,” Biden continued. “In trying to break Hunter, they’ve tried to break me. Enough is enough.”