President Biden issued a statement on Tuesday following his son Hunter Biden’s conviction on three felony gun charges in federal court in Delaware.
The president expressed his acceptance of the court’s decision and reiterated his love for his son.
After the conviction, President Biden returned to Delaware and was seen embracing Hunter.
Hunter Biden was found guilty of illegally purchasing and possessing a firearm while addicted to crack cocaine, violating federal laws that prohibit drug users from owning guns. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
“As I said last week, I am the president, but I am also a dad,” President Biden stated. “Jill and I love our son and are incredibly proud of the man he has become. Many families who have faced addiction understand the pride of seeing a loved one overcome such challenges and emerge strong and resilient. I will accept the outcome of this case and continue to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal. Jill and I will always support Hunter and our family with our unwavering love. Nothing will change that.”
President Biden has mostly refrained from commenting on the case but has previously stated he would accept the jury’s decision and would not pardon his son. He has not addressed whether he might commute any potential sentence.
Hunter Biden also released a statement, expressing gratitude for the support from his wife, Melissa Cohen Biden, his family, friends, and community.
“I am more grateful today for the love and support I experienced this last week from Melissa, my family, my friends, and my community than I am disappointed by the outcome,” Hunter Biden said. “Recovery is possible by the grace of God, and I am blessed to experience that gift one day at a time.”
Hunter Biden’s lawyer, Abbe Lowell, acknowledged their disappointment with the verdict but emphasized their respect for the legal process and their intention to “vigorously pursue all available legal challenges.”
The verdict was delivered swiftly on Tuesday. First Lady Jill Biden, who attended most of the trial, did not make it back to the courtroom in time to hear the verdict. She later exited the court hand-in-hand with Hunter Biden.
President Biden was at the White House when the jury announced the verdict. Other members of the Biden family, including the president’s brother James and Hunter Biden’s daughter Naomi, have been present at the trial to provide support.
