(Rightallegiance.com) – President Biden’s eldest son, Hunter Biden, made history on June 11, 2024, when a federal jury in Wilmington, Delaware, found him guilty on all three felony counts related to his purchase of a Colt Cobra .38 revolver in 2018. This marked the first time a sitting president’s child has been convicted of a federal crime.
The charges centered on claims that Hunter lied about his drug use when filling out a federal form during the firearm purchase and that he illegally possessed the weapon while being an active drug user. Prosecutors presented evidence from his own memoir, “Beautiful Things,” along with text messages and photos that showed Hunter was using crack cocaine at the time of the purchase. The jury deliberated for just three hours before returning a unanimous guilty verdict.
Hunter remained composed as the verdict was read. He embraced his defense team and kissed his wife before leaving the courtroom. President Biden later expressed support for his son, reiterating his trust in the judicial process and confirming he would not intervene. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and $750,000 in fines, though legal experts anticipate a lighter sentence due to Hunter’s status as a nonviolent, first-time offender.
Reactions to the verdict were sharply divided. Republicans called it proof that the justice system is finally holding elites accountable, while Democrats and Biden allies maintained that the process was impartial and fair. The case became a flashpoint in ongoing debates about law, politics, and family, especially with the 2024 election cycle in full swing.
In a surprising turn, on December 1, 2024, President Biden issued a full and unconditional pardon to his son. The pardon covered not only the gun case but also nine felony tax charges dating from 2016 to 2019. Critics quickly accused Biden of hypocrisy, pointing to his earlier promise not to use presidential powers to help his family. Supporters countered that Hunter was being unfairly targeted and that the pardon was an act of compassion amid deeply personal family struggles.
Despite the pardon, questions remain about its political impact. Special Counsel David Weiss, who led the prosecution, publicly defended the investigation and dismissed claims of political bias. As Hunter awaits sentencing in November—now largely symbolic due to the pardon—the case continues to shape public opinion and fuel debate about presidential power, accountability, and justice in America.