ABC’s The View has come under fire for urging President Joe Biden to pardon his son Hunter Biden, who faces legal charges related to a federal gun violation. The panel’s calls for clemency have drawn criticism for contradicting their prior insistence that political figures should be held accountable under the law.
During Wednesday’s episode, Whoopi Goldberg raised the question of whether Biden should pardon Hunter. The idea was met with applause and cheers from the audience. Alyssa Farah Griffin supported the proposal, saying, “I’d pardon my child,” though she admitted it could deepen distrust in institutions.
Sunny Hostin downplayed the significance of Hunter’s charges, including lying on a federal gun form, a felony that carries up to 10 years in prison. Hostin claimed, “The only reason he was indicted is because his last name is Biden,” suggesting political motives behind the legal case.
Sara Haines echoed support, framing a pardon as a way for Biden to close out his presidency after facing political challenges. “I just wish he could do one thing,” she said, portraying the move as a personal decision rather than a legal or ethical issue.
The segment concluded with Joy Behar suggesting a pardon for Commander, Biden’s dog, who was removed from the White House after biting several Secret Service agents. “Those dogs need to be pardoned,” she joked, prompting laughter from the panel.
Critics have accused the hosts of hypocrisy, noting their repeated demands for accountability from President Donald Trump while now advocating leniency for Hunter Biden. The discussion highlights broader concerns about fairness and double standards in the application of justice for political families.