Colorado Governor Jared Polis criticized President Biden’s decision to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, saying that the move put the president’s family above the country.
Polis, who may run for president in 2028, expressed his disappointment in a tweet, stating that while he understood Biden’s desire to help his son, this action could harm the president’s reputation. He warned that it could set a bad precedent for future presidents.
Polis emphasized that Hunter Biden’s legal troubles were his own doing, and while it’s understandable to feel sympathy, he argued that no one, including the president’s family, should be above the law.
Hunter Biden was convicted of gun-related felonies and pleaded guilty to tax fraud related to income from foreign business dealings.
Polis’ criticism was echoed by Rep. Greg Stanton of Arizona, who disagreed with Biden’s claim that Hunter had been unfairly targeted by prosecutors. Stanton said the charges were not politically motivated and that Hunter was convicted fairly by a jury.
This pardon came after both President Biden and White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre had previously stated that Hunter would not receive a pardon, as they wanted to respect the legal system.
Biden had also emphasized that no one is above the law, citing former President Trump’s legal issues as an example.
Political experts, including Johns Hopkins professor Daniel Schlozman, also condemned the pardon, calling it hypocritical and a violation of the principles Democrats have long defended.