Biden won the White House after saying a laptop that contained evidence of corruption in the Biden family was part of a “Russian plan” in 2020. Now, as one of his final acts as president, he is pardoning the son,

The president said he issued a pardon because his son was being unfairly targeted for political purposes. Here’s what to know about the pardon, the crimes and the reactions.

The gun case federal prosecutors brought against Hunter Biden was relatively rare, but the tax charges he pleaded guilty to may have been less unusual.

The decision, which was first reported by NBC News, is a reversal for the president, who repeatedly said he would not use his authority to pardon his son or commute his sentence.

President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son Hunter Biden drew sharp criticism from Republicans but also from fellow Democrats, who said the move sets a bad precedent and sows doubt in a U.S. justice system they have tried to defend against President-elect Donald Trump's attacks.

President Joe Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter, for any offenses over a nearly 11-year period doesn’t have many, if any, direct historical parallels.

Hunter Biden pleaded guilty to nine tax violations in September and was convicted in a separate case on felony firearms-related charges. He could have faced decades in prison, though his upcoming sentencing was likely to be a much less severe punishment.

Democrats emphasized the rule of law in this year's election. Politics experts say the Biden pardon may contradict that message.

In a social media post, the Michigan Democrat said the president and his family "shouldn't get special treatment."