ABC’s The View stirred controversy Wednesday by advocating for President Joe Biden to pardon his son Hunter Biden. The discussion, met with applause from the audience, has been criticized as hypocritical given the hosts’ long-standing calls for strict accountability for political figures, including President Donald Trump.
Whoopi Goldberg introduced the topic, asking whether Biden should pardon Hunter. Alyssa Farah Griffin quickly supported the idea, stating, “I’d pardon my child,” and dismissing concerns about public distrust. She characterized a pardon as a personal decision, despite its broader implications.
Sunny Hostin echoed the sentiment, arguing that Hunter’s gun charge, which involves lying on a federal background check form, was politically motivated. “The only reason he was indicted is because his last name is Biden,” she said, ignoring the legal seriousness of the felony, which carries a potential 10-year prison sentence.
Sara Haines framed a pardon as a way for Biden to end his presidency on a personal note. “I just wish he could do one thing,” she said, downplaying the potential abuse of power and public backlash.
The conversation took a lighter turn when Joy Behar advocated for pardoning Commander, Biden’s dog, who was removed from the White House after biting Secret Service agents. “Those dogs need to be pardoned,” she quipped, prompting laughs from the panel.
The segment has drawn sharp criticism for its apparent double standards, with many noting the hosts’ previous demands for Trump to be held accountable. This discussion highlights the broader tension between fairness in the justice system and the privileges afforded to political elites and their families.