A jury was seated on Monday for the federal gun case against Hunter Biden, President Joe Biden’s son, after intensive questioning on their views on gun rights and drug addiction.
With the first lady in attendance, the 12 jurors and four alternates were instructed by Judge Maryellen Noreika to avoid discussing or reading about the case. Opening statements are set for Tuesday.
Hunter Biden faces three felony charges related to a 2018 firearm purchase during his struggle with crack addiction. The charges include lying on a federal application about his drug use and illegally possessing the gun for 11 days. Biden has pleaded not guilty, arguing that the Justice Department is unfairly targeting him.
The case gained prominence after a plea deal, which would have avoided the trial, fell apart. This event unfolds close to the 2024 presidential election and shortly after former President Donald Trump was convicted of 34 felonies related to hush money payments.
The jury selection process was swift, narrowing down from a pool of 65. Prospective jurors were individually questioned about their knowledge of the case, views on gun ownership, and personal experiences with substance abuse. The selected jurors include individuals with varied backgrounds, including one with a family member convicted of drug charges and another whose relative was a victim of gun violence.
Hunter Biden’s defense may argue that he did not consider himself an addict when he answered “no” to the drug use question on the gun purchase form. They may also question the credibility of the gun store owner.
This trial, while not focusing on Hunter Biden’s business dealings that Republicans often highlight, will scrutinize his personal struggles. The outcome could have significant implications, with potential sentences of up to 25 years in prison, although first-time offenders rarely receive the maximum penalty.
