President Biden's decision to pardon his son, Hunter, has drawn criticism not only from Republicans but also from fellow Democrats. While GOP disapproval was immediate, several Democrats have voiced their unease with the move.

Ohio Representative Greg Landsman acknowledged the president's paternal instincts but expressed concern about the impact on public trust. Colorado Senator Michael Bennet stated that the pardon prioritized personal matters over duty and further eroded public faith in the justice system's impartiality.

The pardon encompasses any potential offenses committed by Hunter Biden between 2014 and December 2024, including pending firearm and tax charges. President Biden defended his decision by alleging that his son was subjected to selective and unfair prosecution.

Arizona Representative Greg Stanton, while respecting the president, disagreed with the pardon, emphasizing that Hunter Biden had committed felonies and was convicted by a jury. Colorado's Democratic Governor, Jared Polis, also criticized the pardon, arguing it set a detrimental precedent and prioritized family over national interests.

Despite the criticism, some Democrats defended the president's action. Former Attorney General Eric Holder argued that the case would not have been pursued under normal circumstances and that the pardon was justified. Maryland Representative Glenn Ivey expressed mixed feelings, acknowledging potential unfairness in the prosecution but also expressing concern about the precedent set by the pardon.

Ivey voiced concern that the pardon could be exploited by Republicans against Democrats who are striving to uphold the Department of Justice's integrity against politicization.