Daily Press Briefing Canceled After Verdict
The White House abruptly canceled today's planned press briefing after a federal grand jury convicted Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, on three felony gun charges.
Hunter Biden, 54, was found guilty of lying to a federally licensed firearms dealer, making false statements on a federal firearms background check form, and possessing an illegally obtained firearm. These charges carry a potential sentence of up to 25 years in prison and fines totaling up to $750,000.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, who frequently faces tough questions from reporters, was scheduled to brief the press but the White House canceled the session. Instead, it was announced that President Biden would spend the evening in Delaware with his son.
Hunter Biden's attorney, Abbe Lowell, expressed disappointment with the verdict but emphasized respect for the jury's decision and pledged to continue exploring all legal avenues for Hunter.
"We are naturally disappointed by today’s verdict," Lowell stated. "We respect the jury process, and as we have done throughout this case, we will continue to vigorously pursue all the legal challenges available to Hunter. Through all he has been through in his recovery, including this trial, Hunter has felt grateful for and blessed by the love and support of his family."
Hunter Biden also released a statement reflecting on the support he received during the trial: "I am more grateful today for the love and support I experienced this last week from Melissa, my family, my friends, and my community than I am disappointed by the outcome. Recovery is possible by the grace of God, and I am blessed to experience that gift one day at a time."
President Biden had previously stated he would accept the jury's decision and would not pardon his son. Following the verdict, CNN reported that while President Biden may not issue a pardon, he could consider commuting his son's prison sentence.
Special Counsel David Weiss highlighted the case's focus on the consequences of Hunter Biden's illegal actions. "First, while there has been much testimony about the defendant’s abuse of drugs and alcohol, ultimately, this case was not just about addiction — a disease that haunts families across the United States, including Hunter Biden’s family," Weiss said. "This case was about the illegal choices the defendant made while in the throes of addiction, his choice to lie on a government form when he bought a gun, and the choice to then possess that gun. It was these choices and the combination of guns and drugs that made his conduct dangerous."
Weiss also emphasized the principle of accountability, regardless of one’s status: "No one in this country is above the law. Everyone must be accountable for their actions, even this defendant. However, Hunter Biden should be no more accountable than any other citizen convicted of this same conduct. The prosecution has been and will continue to be committed to this principle and to the principles of federal prosecution in carrying out its responsibilities."