US President Joe Biden embraced his son Hunter Biden following Hunter’s conviction on federal gun charges. The 81-year-old President traveled to his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, where he was warmly greeted by Hunter, Hunter’s wife Melissa Cohen, and their 4-year-old son Beau at the Delaware Air National Guard tarmac. President Biden hugged his son, shared a lengthy conversation, and showed affection to his grandson.
Hunter Biden’s conviction marks a historic first—the criminal prosecution of a sitting US president’s child. On Tuesday, Hunter was found guilty of three felony charges related to the purchase of a revolver in 2018. Prosecutors argued that Hunter had lied on a mandatory gun-purchase form by claiming he was not illegally using or addicted to drugs.
Throughout the trial, President Biden remained focused on his re-election campaign and refrained from attending court proceedings. Following the verdict, he released a statement acknowledging the outcome and expressing his intent to respect the judicial process as Hunter considers an appeal.
Hunter Biden faces a potential prison sentence of up to 25 years. However, as a first-time offender, it is unlikely he will receive the maximum sentence, and it remains uncertain whether he will serve any prison time. A sentencing date has yet to be set.
Defense attorney Abbe Lowell confirmed that they would continue to vigorously pursue all legal options available. Hunter Biden, in a written statement, expressed his disappointment with the verdict but also gratitude for the support from his family and friends.
This conviction comes on the heels of former President Donald Trump’s guilty verdict on 34 felony charges related to a hush money payment during the 2016 campaign. While Hunter Biden’s case is distinct—he is a private citizen and not a political candidate—both have claimed they were targeted by current political dynamics. Unlike Trump, who has alleged that his verdict was “rigged,” President Biden has accepted the verdict involving his son and stated he would not seek a pardon for him.
In his Tuesday statement, President Biden affirmed that he and the First Lady are proud of their son, who has reportedly been sober since 2019, and emphasized their unwavering love and support for him.