Despite being found guilty on Tuesday of federal gun charges stemming from crimes committed in 2018, Hunter Biden’s legal troubles are far from over. House Republicans, leading an impeachment inquiry into his father, President Joe Biden, insist that this should only be the beginning of holding the Biden family accountable.
Hunter Biden’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, emphasized that his client’s legal team is committed to vigorously pursuing all available legal challenges. These options include challenging the underlying gun laws at the Supreme Court on constitutional grounds.
Hunter Biden faces immense pressure as his sentencing looms. He also has another federal trial for alleged tax violations in California scheduled to begin in September, just weeks before the November elections, in which his father is seeking reelection.
After his conviction on three federal gun charges, Hunter Biden expressed his disappointment but also gratitude for the support of his family. Hunter was found guilty of lying on gun-purchasing paperwork in 2018 about his drug addiction and unlawfully possessing the gun, which he bought while using crack cocaine. He faces up to 25 years in prison, though a sentencing date has not yet been set.
President Biden, reportedly concerned about his son’s legal challenges, conveyed his backing for Hunter and his potential legal pursuits. He emphasized his dual role as both president and father, underscoring the love and pride he and Jill feel for their son. According to President Biden, many families who have experienced loved ones battling addiction can relate to the joy of witnessing their recovery and resilience.
President Biden returned to the family’s hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, almost immediately after the jury’s verdict was announced to be with his family. He reiterated his respect for the judicial process and his unwavering support for Hunter.
Hunter Biden plans to appeal his conviction. However, recent reports suggest that financial constraints may limit his efforts. Earlier this month, Politico reported that Hunter Biden’s benefactor, Hollywood lawyer Kevin Morris, is running low on funds. Morris has loaned Hunter nearly $6 million since 2019 to support his legal defense.
If he can finance his legal battle, Hunter Biden may challenge the gun laws underlying his conviction at the Supreme Court. Some legal commentators believe he has a case on constitutional grounds. Last year, a federal appeals court struck down a law barring illegal drug users from possessing a firearm. An appeals court overturned Patrick Darnell Daniels Jr.’s conviction on similar charges. The court ruled that the law violated the Second Amendment and did not adhere to historical firearm regulations.
Tim Parlatore, a former attorney for Donald Trump, noted that a Supreme Court challenge could attract support from Second Amendment groups. The federal tax trial in California, scheduled to start in September, involves allegations that Hunter Biden allegedly failed to pay at least $1.4 million in taxes over a four-year period. The trial is expected to focus on his foreign business dealings, including his role on the Ukrainian energy company Burisma board and a joint venture with CEFC China Energy.
House Republicans leading the impeachment inquiry into President Biden insist that Hunter’s conviction is just the beginning. They argue that the Department of Justice must investigate the Biden family’s alleged “corrupt influence-peddling schemes” that reportedly generate over $18 million in foreign payments. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer emphasized this point in a post on X, stating, “Today’s verdict is a step toward accountability, but until the Department of Justice investigates everyone involved in the Bidens’ corrupt influence peddling schemes… it will be clear department officials continue to cover for the Big Guy, Joe Biden.”
Last week, the Oversight, Ways and Means, and Judiciary Committee chairmen filed criminal referrals with the Justice Department for Hunter and his uncle, James Biden, for allegedly making false statements during impeachment inquiry depositions. House Republicans are clear about their next steps, seeking further accountability for the Biden family.
