Joe Biden has expressed his pride and love for his son, Hunter, “as a dad” on the day that the 54-year old’s criminal trial began in Delaware. Jill Biden, the first lady of the US, attended court in Wilmington on Monday morning for the opening day of the prosecution of Hunter Biden , the first son, on federal charges relating to the illegal possession of a firearm, theoretically punishable by a prison term extending to 10 years. He is the first child of a sitting president to face a criminal trial.
“I am the president but I am also a dad,” read the statement issued on Monday. “Jill and I love our son, and we are so proud of the man he is today. Hunter’s resilience in the face of adversity and the strength he has brought to his recovery are inspiring to us.
As the president, I don’t and won’t comment on pending federal cases but as dad, I have boundless love for my son, confidence in him and respect for his strength.” President Biden is scheduled to travel to France for a state visit on Wednesday, in the midst of what will be a difficult week for his son. Hunter Biden does not deny having bought the handgun in October 2018, but the prosecution will attempt to show that he knowingly lied on the gun-purchase forms, which require the buyer to attest that they are not addicted to drugs.
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