WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Jury selection is set to commence on Monday in the federal gun case involving President Joe Biden’s son, after a deal with prosecutors fell through that would have avoided a trial so close to the 2024 election.
Hunter Biden, who spent the weekend with his father, is facing three felonies related to a 2018 firearm purchase during a period of crack addiction, as detailed in his memoir. The charges include lying to a gun dealer, making false statements on a firearm application, and illegal possession of the gun for 11 days.
Despite pleading not guilty, Hunter Biden claims he is unfairly targeted by the Justice Department, amidst criticism from Republicans over the failed previous deal.
The timing of this trial, following Donald Trump’s recent conviction on multiple felonies in New York City, highlights the courtroom drama taking center stage in the 2024 campaign.
In addition to this trial, Hunter Biden is also facing separate tax-related charges in California. Both cases were initially expected to be resolved through a deal with prosecutors last July, but disagreements over the terms led to the collapse of the agreement.
The trial is expected to shed light on Hunter Biden’s history of addiction and personal struggles, rather than his foreign business dealings which Republicans have attempted to exploit without evidence.
Concerns are growing among the President’s allies about the potential impact of the trial on Joe Biden, as he grapples with low poll numbers and prepares for upcoming debates.
Prosecutors plan to use evidence from Hunter Biden’s memoir and a laptop left at a repair shop, containing personal and potentially embarrassing content. The judge will question prospective jurors on their ability to serve impartially, addressing issues related to addiction, firearms, and potential bias due to Hunter Biden’s connection to the president.
If convicted, Hunter Biden could face up to 25 years in prison, though the actual outcome remains uncertain.
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