US President Joe Biden publicly showed support for his son, Hunter Biden, embracing him after his conviction in federal gun charges. The moment captured on camera occurred during President Joe Biden’s visit to his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware.
The 81-year-old President greeted Hunter, along with his wife Melissa Cohen and their 4-year-old son Beau, at the Delaware Air National Guard. President Biden hugged and spoke with Hunter for several minutes, also displaying affection towards his grandchild.
In a historic case, Hunter Biden was convicted of all three felony charges related to the purchase of a revolver in 2018. Prosecutors argued that he falsely stated on a gun-purchase form that he was not illegally using or addicted to drugs.
President Biden, who refrained from attending the trial while campaigning for re-election, issued a statement expressing acceptance of the verdict. He pledged to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal.
Hunter Biden, facing a potential 25-year prison sentence as a first-time offender, is not expected to receive the maximum penalty. No sentencing date has been set yet, but his defense attorney intends to pursue legal challenges.
In a written statement, Hunter Biden expressed disappointment with the outcome but gratitude for the support of family and friends. His conviction follows former President Donald Trump’s recent guilty verdict in a separate case.
While both cases involve felony charges, Hunter Biden, a private citizen, is not seeking political office. President Biden has affirmed his acceptance of the verdict regarding his son and has ruled out seeking a pardon.
In his statement, Joe Biden expressed pride in Hunter’s sobriety since 2019 and assured ongoing love and support from himself and the First Lady.
