President Joe Biden made clear Thursday that in addition to not pardoning his son Hunter following his conviction on three gun-related charges this week, he won’t commute his sentence either.
Asked during a news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the G7 summit in Italy if a commutation was on the table, Biden said, “No.”
Biden also spoke briefly about his son’s situation in response to another question, and reiterated that he won’t pardon him.
“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.”
Before Hunter Biden was convicted on Tuesday, the president stated that he would accept whatever the jury decides in the case.
Asked in an ABC News interview last Thursday if he would rule out a pardon, the president said, “Yes.” Asked if he would accept the outcome of the jury trial, he again said, “Yes.”
Hunter Biden was found guilty on Tuesday of three felony counts related to his possession of a gun while using narcotics in the first trial of the offspring of a sitting U.S. president.
Two of the counts carry maximum prison sentences of 10 years, while the third has a maximum of five years. Under federal sentencing guideline recommendations, Biden could be sentenced to over a year in prison, but the judge could sentence him to more or less time. Each count also carries a maximum fine of $250,000.
No sentencing date has been set.
Hunter Biden also faces federal tax charges in California, a case that is set to go to trial in September.
This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
