News of President Biden's decision to pardon his son, Hunter, sent shockwaves through the media landscape, leaving commentators struggling to react. MSNBC contributor Molly Jong-Fast admitted to being speechless and needing time to process the unexpected announcement during a live discussion on Sunday.
Guest host Melissa Murray broke the news, citing an NBC report indicating President Biden's intention to pardon Hunter, who had previously pleaded guilty to federal gun violations and tax evasion. Jong-Fast's candid response, "I just heard it. I have to process it. I don’t have a take. I’m sorry," captured the surprise felt by many.
The pardon contradicts President Biden's earlier pledge not to interfere in the Justice Department's handling of his son's case. He had received praise from liberal media for this stance, which was seen as upholding the integrity of the justice system. In his pardon statement, President Biden defended his decision, suggesting Hunter had faced unfair and selective prosecution due to his family name.
New York Times columnist Michelle Goldberg echoed this sentiment during the MSNBC discussion, arguing that while President Biden had strived to avoid intervention, he ultimately acted to protect his son from what she perceived as an unjust legal system.
In a statement following the pardon, Hunter Biden acknowledged his past mistakes, attributing them to his struggles with addiction and claiming they were exploited for political gain. He emphasized his commitment to sobriety, supported by his family and faith.
The pardon comes after repeated assurances from both President Biden and White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre that such action would not be taken. Jean-Pierre reiterated this stance as recently as last month. Hunter Biden's sentencing for the gun charges and tax evasion had been scheduled for the coming weeks.
