President Joe Biden on Friday defended his son Hunter Biden against allegations of tax and firearms violations, stating that he had "done nothing wrong". The statement comes as federal prosecutors weigh whether to charge Hunter following a four-year criminal investigation. The White House has dismissed claims made by an IRS special agent seeking whistleblower protections in relation to the handling of the case. Aides maintain that President Biden has not been involved in any aspect of the investigation.
Hunter has denied wrongdoing in the tax case, insisting he handled his affairs "legally and appropriately." Despite these assurances, Republicans on Capitol Hill and former President Donald Trump have drawn attention to the issue by attempting to tie it with President Biden's administration.
The potential charges against Hunter include making false statements on a firearm background check form. These accusations have fueled attacks from Republican leaders, particularly those aligned with former president Donald Trump. Critics argue that Hunter may be involved in international influence-peddling schemes designed to benefit his father's political career.
However, no evidence supporting these claims has surfaced thus far. In fact, such allegations led to Mr. Trump's first impeachment trial when he asked Ukraine’s leader for help investigating alleged corruption involving then-presidential candidate Joe Biden and his son.
As federal prosecutors deliberate whether or not they will pursue charges against him, supporters of both Bidens remain steadfast in their belief that this inquiry is yet another politically motivated attack directed at undermining their credibility rather than uncovering genuine wrongdoing.