In a historic legal proceeding, Hunter Biden, son of US President Joe Biden, has begun his trial in a Delaware federal court. The trial, which commenced with jury selection on June 3, 2024, is the first time a child of a sitting president has faced such a legal challenge. Hunter Biden is confronted with three felony charges stemming from a 2018 firearm purchase, during which he allegedly lied on a federal form about his drug use at the time. The charges could result in a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and have the potential to influence the Democratic presidential campaign for the upcoming November 5 election as well as President Biden’s re-election campaign amidst the political turmoil surrounding the trial and the recent conviction of former President Donald Trump in a separate case. The trial is expected to delve into Hunter Biden’s past struggles with addiction and may include evidence from his memoir and a laptop that was left at a repair shop. President Biden has expressed ‘boundless love’ for his son and support for his recovery from addiction, while First Lady Jill Biden’s presence at the trial underscores the family’s unity during this challenging time.
Key points
- Hunter Biden’s trial for three felony charges related to a 2018 firearm purchase has begun with jury selection.
- The trial is historic as it involves the son of a sitting US president, potentially affecting the upcoming presidential election.
- If convicted, Hunter Biden could face up to 25 years in prison.
