In a recent podcast interview, Hunter Biden disclosed that his father, Joe Biden, did not want him to seek a second presidential term. Over the last few months, Hunter has been sharing his experiences as the president’s son while also expressing his political views. This newfound openness follows the complete pardon he received from the federal government in December 2024.
During a chat on NPR’s “Newsmakers,” Hunter was asked if his dad ever encouraged him to run for reelection. He simply replied, “No, no.” A former Biden staffer criticized Joe Biden, suggesting that his arrogance is partly to blame for current difficulties faced by the country.
When prompted about whether he shared his views with his father, Hunter stated, “No, I told him this: That he wanted to do his best with his life, and that he supported whatever he thought was best as it related to what he wanted to do to serve.” For Hunter, the most pressing concern has been restoring his relationship with his dad and family. He expressed the challenges that come with the presidency, noting, “It’s almost impossible for a president to fully participate in the lives of the people he loves most.” The demands of the presidency are consuming, he added.
Hunter refuted claims that Joe urged him to continue his involvement in politics, emphasizing that such assertions are just not accurate. He posed a thought-provoking question: “But from a logical standpoint, what do I need to gain to remain a target?”
Reflecting on the past, he acknowledged how difficult Joe’s presidency was, largely due to both personal struggles and the weight of the office. “I think his four years as president were really difficult… some of the hardest things I’ve ever put someone through,” he admitted.
When asked if he communicated these concerns to his father before Joe’s reelection bid, Hunter clarified that Joe only expressed his worries after making the decision to run. He voiced that it would have been unfair to burden his father with his anxieties about the election. “There’s only one thing my father cares about more than service, and that’s family,” he concluded, reiterating a desire not to impede his father’s sense of duty.
