Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, whose own corruption sentence was commuted by President Trump, has criticized President Biden's decision to pardon his son, Hunter. Blagojevich, speaking on "America's Newsroom," expressed his belief that Biden had been dishonest with the public about his intentions regarding a potential pardon. While acknowledging the natural inclination of a father to protect his child, Blagojevich questioned Biden's repeated denials of any plans for a pardon, suggesting he had misled the American people.
Blagojevich drew a distinction between his own case and Hunter's, stating, "He really committed crimes. I didn't. I was in prison for politics." He emphasized his refusal to yield to what he perceived as politically motivated prosecution. However, he also expressed empathy for Biden's paternal instincts, saying, "Joe Biden's a father. I'm a father. I have to think that under the same circumstances, I probably would have done the same thing for my child."
The pardon, issued on Sunday, covers Hunter Biden's convictions on federal tax charges and felony gun charges. President Biden defended his decision, claiming Hunter was unfairly targeted due to his family connection. This explanation has been met with criticism, with accusations that the White House backtracked on prior assurances. Blagojevich echoed this sentiment, stating, "Right from the beginning, he lied to the American people, making chumps of the American people."
Despite the criticism, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre insisted that Biden had been truthful with the public and had carefully considered the decision. She also hinted at the possibility of further pardons before the end of Biden's term.
This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Blagojevich's own experience with presidential pardons, adding another layer of complexity to the debate surrounding Hunter Biden's legal troubles and his father's intervention.
