'It looks a bit strange': World reacts after Joe Biden pardons his son Hunter

Former Labor minister Graham Richardson says it "looks a bit strange" after US President Joe Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden after he was convicted of gun-related charges and had pleaded guilty to federal tax charges.

"I think it looks a bit strange but what are you going to do – it's your son," Mr Richardson told Sky News Australia.

"And you only get the one chance now because he's about to leave office."

The outgoing leader of the free world made the announcement through a White House statement, saying he did not want to impede the Justice Department's decision-making, but it was "clear" his son was "treated differently".

"From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making, and I kept my word even as I have watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted," the 81-year-old said on Sunday night (local time).

"Without aggravating factors like use in a crime, multiple purchases, or buying a weapon as a straw purchaser, people are almost never brought to trial on felony charges solely for how they filled out a gun form.

"Those who were late paying their taxes because of serious addictions, but paid them back subsequently with interest and penalties, are typically given non-criminal resolutions. It is clear that Hunter was treated differently."

President Biden and the White House had previously repeatedly ruled out pardoning his 54-year-old son who he spent time with in Massachusetts over Thanksgiving.

[scottythetrex]

It looks a bit strange? No, it's called corruption.

[indyj]

It's OK when Democrats do it. I never again want to hear "no one is above the law."

[PieroMinayaRojas]

Everything they blame Trump they do it themselves

[donaldmoore]

Criminals never put criminals in jail.

[michaelwpaulin]

I am just so damn sick of this whole
Disgusting and Corrupt family….
On top of this action, Obiden even tried to say that his horrible son has been targeted by his opponents, . This guy is guilty as Hell and even pled guilty., .
They just make me Sick…

[petetrc]

"Hunter is the smartest guy I know" should tell you everything.

[carlosrodriguezjr]

There’s two forms of justice for the Democrats and the other for everyone else

[liggerstuxin]

Good riddance to all that corruption. What a surprise that they are not held accountable for their crimes

[_wokeweaklingscryoverwords_]

This is one of the perfect examples of Democrat Corruption.

[chubone]

All J6’s should be pardoned on day one of Trumps term. The U.S. justice system in America is perverted…

[Ann]

They both should go to jail, if it was one of us we’d be behind bars, 😡

[BigTexan]

Let's not forget the bag of cocaine found in the Whitehouse that was quickly brushed under the rug.

[littleice]

Rich privilege exist if is was a average person they would’ve been thrown in jail from the gecko

[debbeborders]

It is wrong to pardon a family member. What an abuse of power.

[Matick-]

He was singled out because he broke the law, just as any other if they commit crime.

[gustavogsepulveda]

Hunter is like Diddy, Born to go to Prison,
Hunter is just like his Daddy, Hunter will F up again .

[TheCowboylogic]

The gloves are off now.
Trump needs to immediately Pardon ever J6 Defendant on Jan. 20th.

[jannellmeagher]

Oh please. Even Stevie Wonder saw this coming.😂

[WilliamBeam-pk]

He pardoned Hunter so that Hunter wouldn't testify against him

[joebryniarski]

Those petty convictions didn't even scratch the surface when it comes to Hunter's criminal activity. After daddy is out and the DOJ has been cleaned up, let the investigations begin of both him and the big guy.