Following President Biden's controversial pardon of his son, Hunter, some Democrats have voiced their disapproval. Senator Jon Tester, however, offered a rather dismissive response when questioned about the matter. Just weeks away from his departure from the Senate after losing his re-election bid, Tester quipped, "I’m one month from getting the f--- out of here. Ask somebody who counts." This curt reply, delivered with a smile, came after a reporter asked for his take on the president's decision.

Tester's comment follows his defeat by Republican Tim Sheehy in the November election. The Montana Senate race was a closely contested battle, and Sheehy's victory marked a significant shift in the state's political landscape. Tester, a three-term Democrat, had held the seat for a considerable period. His loss contributes to the Republican takeover of all statewide elected offices in Montana for the first time in over a century.

While Tester declined to address the pardon directly, other Democrats have criticized the move. Senator Gary Peters of Michigan stated that the pardon was an "improper use of power" that undermines public trust in government. Similarly, Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado expressed concern that the decision further erodes Americans' faith in the fairness and impartiality of the justice system.

Sen. Jon Tester at a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing. (Tom Williams)

Sen.-elect Tim Sheehy. (Tim Sheehy For Montana)