Top Biden Aide Andrew Bates Discusses Hunter Biden Pardon and Commutations

Involvement in Hunter Biden's Pardon

• 📌 Andrew Bates stated he was informed about Hunter Biden's pardon shortly before its announcement.
• 💡 He confirmed he was in favor of the pardon, citing Hunter Biden's struggles with addiction during the period of the alleged crimes.
• ⚖️ Bates also noted that legal experts publicly commented that the charges against Hunter Biden are rarely prosecuted.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 While President Biden had previously stated he would not pardon his son, Bates was not shocked by the pardon, believing most parents would understand such a decision.

Discussions on Broad Commutations

• 🏛️ Bates was involved in some meetings regarding broad commutations during the transition period.
• 📰 The media frequently inquired about upcoming clemency actions and pardons, leading to communication with legal teams.
• 🤝 Bates confirmed he did not have direct discussions or meetings with President Biden about these commutations.
• 📧 He was not aware of individuals in the press office attending meetings about commutations, though normal procedures involved sending emails to relevant parties.

Last-Minute Pardons (e.g., Dr. Fauci)

• ❓ Bates recalled inquiries from the media about preemptive pardons for individuals criticized by the incoming president.
• 🤔 He remembered asking about these pardons and thinking they made sense due to comments made by the current president during the campaign.
• 🧑‍⚖️ Bates mentioned asking Ben Labolt and Karine about these pardons, and that emails were sent to various staff, likely including the council's office.
• 📰 He learned about the last-minute pardons for Dr. Fauci and others only when they were announced, not through direct meetings with President Biden.