Judge in Hunter Biden tax case rebukes president’s claims of unfair treatment

SUMMARY

U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi criticized President Joe Biden's claim that Hunter Biden was unfairly prosecuted, stating the assertion conflicts with court findings. The judge noted that two federal judges and the president's own Justice Department rejected Hunter’s claims of selective prosecution. He also refuted Biden’s statement that Hunter was treated differently due to his addiction, as Hunter admitted to evading taxes after regaining sobriety. The judge expressed concern about the broad language in Biden’s pardon, which covered offenses until December 1, 2024, questioning its potential overreach. Hunter Biden pleaded guilty in September to tax evasion, admitting he avoided $1.4 million in taxes to fund a lavish lifestyle. President Biden granted him a full pardon on Sunday, overturning earlier pledges not to intervene. Special counsel David Weiss denied any political motivation in Hunter’s prosecution, arguing the pardon doesn't absolve guilt or suggest flaws in the charges.