Opinion | How Biden’s use of the presidential pardon power tarnishes his legacy

The first decision was Biden’s urging seeks a second term in officedespite glaring concerns about his age and his ability to endure the rigors of another four years. His determination appeared to be based more on personal pride than practical reality, putting his party in a bind as it hesitated to challenge a sitting president.

When his candidacy failed after one catastrophic debate performanceThe result was political chaos. Vice President Kamala Harris has been thrust into the unenviable position of trying to salvage a campaign marred by Biden’s missteps, with little time left to effectively address them Donald Trump. Biden’s stubbornness gave Trump significant electoral opportunities and paved the way for his return to the White House.

Another decision came on Monday when Biden used his Presidential pardon to protect his son Hunter Biden. Hunter Biden was convicted of three federal firearms charges in June and pleaded guilty to tax evasion in September. He was threatened with years in prison.

His sentencing this month promised a rare example of accountability for a figure in the hearts of so many political controversies. But instead of letting justice take its course, Joe Biden intervened.