As a storm brews over the Biden family, the President finds himself in an emotional and political impasse.
Amidst legal challenges and political turbulence, President Joe Biden grapples with the potential criminal charges facing his son, Hunter Biden, stirring profound concern within the White House and beyond.
Hunter Biden declined a plea deal earlier in July 2023 that could have spared him prison time, opting to face the charges head-on. This decision has not only heightened the legal stakes but has also added to the emotional burden carried by his father.
Recent developments reveal Hunter Biden could face up to 17 years in prison for charges including false tax return filing and a felony gun charge. His decision to decline a plea deal in July 2023, which could have averted prison time, has further complicated the situation.
These legal troubles have significantly impacted President Biden, who is deeply concerned about his son's potential conviction and its ramifications. Biden's daily routine now includes frequent check-ins with Hunter through calls, texts, and visits, underscoring his growing worry.
Insiders note a marked change in the President's demeanor, with aides and confidants confirming his increased protectiveness and sensitivity regarding Hunter, especially when his presence in the campaign is questioned.
President Biden's guilt over his son's circumstances is palpable. He believes his decision to run for president has inadvertently intensified Hunter's challenges. This guilt is reflected in his increasingly protective stance towards his son.
As the 2024 election looms, Hunter Biden's concerns grow. He fears the possibility of fleeing the country if Trump wins and is anxious about the scrutiny his family will endure during the campaign.
Democrats, too, are worried. They fear the trials could politically damage Biden, overshadowing his campaign and consuming his attention, a concern shared across the party.
Hunter Biden remains resolute in defending his father's reputation despite the mounting challenges. He has even offered to testify publicly, which Republicans have rejected. His appearance on the Hill to defend his father and criticize GOP attacks highlighted his commitment.
The president's inner circle expressed frustration when the plea deal fell through. They are dismayed by Republican claims that Hunter used his father's name for personal enrichment despite no evidence of illegal behavior being found.
Conservative media have played up a 2018 voicemail from Joe Biden to Hunter, where he expresses concern about his addiction, further fueling the controversy.
"It’s Dad. I’m calling to tell you I love you. I love you more than the whole world, pal."
Chris Dodd, commenting on President Biden's situation, said, “He has a real human decency, and a lot of it is created by scarring. And he’s worried.” Another confidant of the president described Biden's visible worry, noting the change in his demeanor.
Hunter Biden, discussing the GOP's motives, expressed a belief that their actions are aimed at causing pain for his father, ultimately impacting the presidency. This sentiment echoes the underlying tension in this saga.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre affirmed Joe Biden's unwavering pride in Hunter, highlighting his support for his son's recovery journey.
Hunter Biden remarked on the GOP's alleged strategy:
“What they’re trying to do is they’re trying to kill me, knowing that it will be a pain greater than my father could be able to handle — and so therefore destroying a presidency in that way,”
The president's inner circle member expressed their view bluntly: “They have no shame,” referring to the GOP attacks.