Former President Biden Repeatedly Offered Testimony in Hunter’s Gun Trial

Former President Joe Biden repeatedly offered to testify privately at his son Hunter Biden's federal gun trial in June 2024, despite his demanding schedule and presidential duties, according to the book "Original Sin" by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. Biden believed his testimony on Hunter’s state of mind when purchasing the firearm could have supported the defense, but Hunter’s legal team declined the offer, fearing it could backfire and intensify media scrutiny. Hunter Biden was ultimately convicted on three felony gun charges and later pardoned by Joe Biden in December 2024, despite earlier public statements that he would not issue a pardon. The trial reportedly consumed much of the Biden administration's attention during a critical phase of Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, including major international trips and a presidential debate. Former First Lady Jill Biden also offered to testify but was deemed less useful as she had limited insight into Hunter's struggles during the relevant period. Throughout the trial, Joe Biden publicly expressed support for his son while refraining from commenting on the ongoing legal case.