Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has accused President Biden of “irreparably” damaging the U.S. justice system after granting a sweeping pardon to his son, Hunter Biden. Johnson stated that President Biden had previously insisted he would never pardon his son for his serious crimes, but on Sunday evening, he granted a “Full and Unconditional Pardon” for any and all offenses that Hunter committed from 2014 to 2024.
The pardon covers Hunter’s firearm and tax charges, and in a departure from tradition, it also covers any and all possible offenses during that time period. This move has been criticized by lawmakers from both parties, with many accusing the Biden administration of using and abusing the justice system.
Hunter Biden was investigated for several crimes, including tax evasion and illegal foreign business dealings, and was expected to be sentenced soon. President Biden claimed that his son was treated unfairly and was the victim of political weaponization, stating that Hunter was “singled out only because he is my son – and that is wrong.”
The pardon has sent shockwaves through Washington, with many lawmakers calling it a misuse of executive power. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., stated that the administration has been “lying to every step of the way” and that this is just the latest in their “long coverup scheme.”
On the other hand, some Democrats have come to President Biden’s defense, with Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., stating that if someone defended the actions of a 34x felon, they should also support the Hunter Biden pardon.