First Lady Jill Biden played a pivotal role in President Joe Biden’s decision to grant a full and unconditional pardon to his son, Hunter Biden. The pardon encompasses federal offenses committed from January 2014 to December 2024. Despite Hunter Biden’s past derogatory remarks about her and the ensuing controversy surrounding the decision, Jill Biden’s unwavering advocacy was instrumental in persuading the President.

Jeff Zeleny, CNN’s Chief National Affairs Correspondent, noted that the President was initially wavering about the pardon. He stated, “We were told really in recent weeks that Dr. Jill Biden—First Lady Jill Biden—was very supportive of the president doing something like this,” Zeleny reported. This decision represents a significant shift from the President’s previous stance of not using his executive powers to aid his family.

Publicly, Jill Biden expressed unwavering support for the pardon. She told reporters during the unveiling of the White House Christmas decorations, “Of course I support the pardon of my son.” This strong stance reflects her commitment to family unity, even in the face of past disagreements. Previous investigations had revealed text messages in which Hunter Biden used derogatory language to refer to his stepmother. However, these personal disputes did not hinder her advocacy for his pardon.

The pardon includes several offenses, among them three felonies related to firearms and Hunter’s admission of guilt for tax fraud amounting to $1.4 million on overseas income. These charges arose during what Hunter referred to as his “darkest days of addiction.” He asserted that these periods were used to “publicly humiliate and shame” him and his family for political gain.

President Biden defended the pardon, stating his belief that Hunter was “treated differently and selectively prosecuted only because he is the President’s son.” He described the legal proceedings as politically motivated, arguing that his adversaries exploited Hunter’s personal issues to undermine his presidency. This decision was reached as a plea deal fell apart in court and Hunter faced sentencing hearings for his crimes.

Insiders close to the White House confirmed that Jill Biden’s influence on the decision was considerable. Her steadfast advocacy reportedly played a significant role in changing the President’s mind. Jill Biden attended Hunter’s trial for gun charges earlier this year, a gesture perceived as a show of solidarity. Her involvement underscores her crucial role in balancing familial loyalty and political strategy.

The pardon has drawn extensive criticism. Democrats and advocates for clemency have raised concerns that this decision represents a double standard, favoring the President’s family and undermining the principle of impartial justice.

Republicans have also taken this opportunity to accuse the Biden administration of hypocrisy. They drew comparisons to previous criticisms made against former President Donald Trump’s use of pardon powers.