WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden has defended his son Hunter as federal prosecutors are reportedly nearing a decision on whether to charge the president’s son with tax and firearms violations after a four-year criminal investigation.
“First of all, my son hasn’t done anything wrong,” Biden said in an interview with Stephanie Ruhle, host of “The 11th Hour on MSNBC.” «I trust him. I have faith in him.»
When asked how the charges against his son could affect his presidency, Biden said he supports Hunter.
“He impacts my presidency by making me proud of him,” the president said.
Federal prosecutors are weighing whether to charge Hunter Biden with two misdemeanor failure to file taxes, a single felony tax evasion related to a business expense. for a year of taxes, and the weapon charge, also a potential felony. Hunter Biden has said that he has since reconciled delinquent tax returns.
The White House has dismissed allegations by an IRS special agent seeking whistleblower protection in handling the case. Aides insist that Biden has not been involved and that the president is keeping his promise not to politicize the Justice Department.
But any result could bring significant national attention to Biden and his family as the president embarks on a re-election campaign.
Hunter has denied any wrongdoing in the prosecution case, saying he handled his affairs «lawfully and properly.»
The investigation has drawn the attention of Republicans on Capitol Hill and former President Donald Trump, a frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination, who has sought to link Biden to his son’s business dealings with foreign governments.
The long-awaited decision by the Department of Justice comes after a four-year investigation.