upper waypoint

Biden’s Pardon of His Son Was Controversial, but Not So Unusual

Save ArticleSave Article
Failed to save article

Please try again

A Nov. 29, 2024 photo shows US President Joe Biden and son Hunter Biden stepping out of a bookstore while shopping in Nantucket, Massachusetts on Nov. 29, 2024. Biden on Dec. 1 issued an official pardon for his son Hunter, who is facing sentencing for 2 criminal cases related to tax evasion and the purchase of a firearm.  (Mandel NGAN/AFP via Getty Images)

When President Joe Biden gave his son Hunter an unconditional pardon, there was scathing criticism, including from fellow Democrats like Governor Gavin Newsom and Senator Adam Schiff. Some criticized the president for giving President-elect Donald Trump cover to follow through on pardoning anyone from himself to the January 6th rioters.

But historian and Politico Magazine contributor Joshua Zeitz disagrees and argues that Biden’s pardon is neither unique nor uniquely polarizing. Scott talks with Zeitz about the historical context of presidential pardons.

Sponsored

lower waypoint
next waypoint