Hunter Biden Says His Pardon Was 'Not Good' for America or His Father's Legacy

Hunter Biden gave a rare and candid interview to the BBC, in which he expressed regret over the presidential pardon granted to him by his father, former President Joe Biden, saying it was not good for the United States or for his father's political legacy. The wide-ranging interview also included a revelation that Joe Biden's cancer, which was disclosed after he left office, has continued to spread.

The Pardon Controversy

Shortly before leaving the White House, President Joe Biden issued a sweeping pardon to his son Hunter, who had faced multiple federal charges related to firearms and tax offenses. The decision was widely criticized as undermining the principle of equal justice under the law, including by members of the Democratic Party who had backed the elder Biden through years of political attacks related to his son's legal troubles.

Hunter Biden acknowledged in the interview that even he viewed the pardon as a political mistake, despite it sparing him from potential prison sentences. He said his father made the decision out of love and family loyalty, not out of political calculation, but conceded that the move had damaged public trust.

Joe Biden's Health

Hunter Biden disclosed that his father's cancer, which was publicly revealed following Joe Biden's departure from office, has progressed. He did not elaborate extensively on the specifics of the diagnosis or prognosis, but said the family was managing the situation together.

Joe Biden's health had been a central issue throughout the 2024 election campaign, ultimately contributing to his decision to withdraw from the presidential race and pass the Democratic nomination to Vice President Kamala Harris.

No Political Ambitions

Hunter Biden also firmly denied any personal interest in running for political office, saying his focus remained on his family and sobriety. He expressed hope that public interest in his personal struggles had begun to fade, allowing him to rebuild his life outside of the political spotlight.