Joe Biden Promises Not to Pull a 'Dad Card' for Hunter—Hopes Jury Doesn't Ground Him Too Long
President Joe Biden has found himself in a uniquely challenging parental position. In perhaps the most delicate blend of family loyalty and presidential duty, Biden has stated he will not commute any potential sentence for his son, Hunter Biden. The younger Biden was recently convicted on three counts of felony gun charges related to his purchase of a firearm in 2018 while allegedly addicted to drugs.
At a press conference, President Biden reiterated that he will not pardon Hunter and intends to abide by the jury's decision. "I won't be pulling the 'dad card' on this one," the President jokingly remarked, before turning serious. "The rule of law applies to everyone, even to the brightest and most decent men I know," he added, referring to Hunter.
Hunter Biden, who faces up to 25 years in prison, now finds his future in the hands of the American justice system. However, whether he will actually receive prison time remains to be seen.
Acknowledging his son's overcoming addiction, President Biden expressed unwavering love and pride for Hunter. “He’s one of the brightest and most decent men I know,” the President said, where the love of a father and the pride in his offspring was evident.
In handling the courtroom drama, President Biden has been tactfully avoiding the courthouse during Hunter's trial, choosing to only visit Delaware after the trial concluded. This avoidance of the spotlight is perhaps an attempt at maintaining presidential decorum, ensuring that there was no room for accusations of favoritism or interference.
Hunter Biden's legal team isn't throwing in the towel just yet; they plan to make appeals following his conviction. While legal appeals can often be a lengthy process, President Biden has made it clear that his role as a father will not interfere with the proceedings.
During a press conference at the G7 Summit in Italy with President Zelenskyy, Biden confirmed that he would not be intervening in his son's legal issues, even while juggling global diplomatic responsibilities.
President Biden’s stance on his son’s trial appears to be both a political and a personal balancing act. Through it all, he has emphasized the importance of the rule of law and his commitment to the outcome of the trial, showcasing a nuanced and often conflicting mix of parental love and presidential duty.
One can’t help but imagine a grounded Hunter sitting at home, chafing against the limits brought on by his situation, as Dad-in-Chief looks at him with both pride and sternness, silently mouthing the words, "I love you, but the jury's decision is final."
Though this ordeal is undoubtedly a stressful time for the Biden family, it has provided a rare glimpse into the President's resolve to separate personal affairs from his office, all while ensuring his son has his undying support. As it stands, the jury's decision will be the determining factor, leaving President Biden without his usual Presidential privileges to leverage in support of his son.