President Joe Biden clarified on Thursday that he will neither pardon nor commute the sentence of his son Hunter Biden, who was recently convicted on three gun-related charges. This statement was made during a news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the G7 summit in Italy. When asked if he would consider commuting his son’s sentence, Biden responded firmly, “No.”
Biden also briefly addressed his son’s legal troubles in response to another question, reiterating his position against granting a pardon. “I‘m extremely proud of my son Hunter,” Biden said. “He has overcome an addiction. He’s one of the brightest, most decent men I know, and I am satisfied that I’m not going to do anything. I said I abide by the jury decision. I will do that, and I will not pardon him.”
Prior to Hunter Biden’s conviction on Tuesday, President Biden had publicly stated his intention to respect the jury’s decision. In an interview with ABC News last Thursday, when asked if he would rule out a pardon, he replied, “Yes.” He also affirmed his commitment to accepting the outcome of the trial, saying, “Yes.”

Hunter Biden was found guilty on three felony counts for possessing a gun while using narcotics, marking the first time the offspring of a sitting U.S. president has been convicted of such charges. Two of these counts carry maximum prison sentences of 10 years each, while the third count has a maximum of five years. The federal sentencing guidelines suggest that he could face over a year in prison, though the judge has the discretion to impose a longer or shorter sentence. Additionally, each count carries a potential fine of up to $250,000.
As of now, no sentencing date has been set for Hunter Biden.
In addition to the gun-related charges, Hunter Biden is also facing federal tax charges in California, with a trial scheduled for September. This upcoming case adds to the legal challenges that he is currently navigating.
President Biden’s decision not to interfere with his son’s legal proceedings underscores his commitment to the rule of law and the judicial process. Despite the personal nature of the situation, he has made it clear that he will not use his presidential powers to alter the course of justice. This stance has been consistent, even before the conviction, highlighting the president’s adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Hunter Biden’s conviction and the subsequent reaction from President Biden have drawn significant public and media attention. The case has sparked debates about the responsibilities and limitations of presidential power, especially in matters involving close family members. By choosing not to pardon or commute his son’s sentence, President Biden is setting a precedent for how such situations might be handled in the future.
The legal proceedings against Hunter Biden are part of a broader narrative that includes his past struggles with addiction and his efforts towards recovery. President Biden’s comments reflect a father’s pride in his son’s personal growth and resilience, despite the legal challenges he faces. “He has overcome an addiction,” Biden said, emphasizing the personal journey that Hunter has undergone.
The president’s decision to respect the jury’s decision also aligns with his broader political philosophy of upholding democratic institutions and processes. By refraining from intervening in his son’s legal case, President Biden reinforces the principle that no one, regardless of their relation to the president, is above the law.
As Hunter Biden awaits sentencing and prepares for his upcoming tax trial, the situation remains a focal point for public discourse. The outcomes of these legal battles will not only impact Hunter Biden but also continue to influence perceptions of President Biden’s leadership and integrity.
In conclusion, President Joe Biden’s firm stance against pardoning or commuting his son’s sentence following his conviction on gun-related charges illustrates a commitment to legal principles and ethical governance. Despite the familial ties, President Biden has chosen to let the judicial process take its course, reinforcing his belief in the importance of the rule of law.