Fallout from Hunter Biden pardon, race for DNC chair expands and more | America Decides

President Biden issued a pardon to his son Hunter Biden, despite previously stating he would not. The announcement came ahead of Hunter Biden's scheduled sentencing hearings for tax evasion and gun-related charges. Additionally, President-elect Trump has announced controversial picks for key positions in his administration, including Cash Patel for FBI director and Charles Kushner as ambassador to France, raising concerns about qualifications and potential conflicts of interest.

Hunter Biden Pardon

• 00:00:52 President Biden pardoned his son Hunter Biden, who was convicted of tax evasion and a gun-related charge. Biden previously pledged not to issue a pardon, leading to questions about his decision and the perception of fairness. The pardon avoids Hunter Biden facing potential jail time and sentencing hearings in Delaware and California.

Trump's Cabinet Picks

• 00:01:34 President-elect Trump has selected Cash Patel to be the FBI Director and Charles Kushner to be the Ambassador to France. Cash Patel is a hardline Trump loyalist who has criticized the FBI, while Charles Kushner previously received a pardon from Trump for tax evasion and other charges. These appointments have raised concerns about qualifications and potential conflicts of interest.

January 6th Pardons

• 00:16:12 Following the Hunter Biden pardon, President-elect Trump questioned whether January 6th defendants would also be pardoned. Many January 6th defendants have filed motions seeking release or changes in their conditions, expecting Trump to pardon them upon taking office. There are over 1,500 January 6th defendants, with 600 already sentenced, and Trump has not clearly defined which defendants are included in his pardon plans.

DNC Chair Race

• 00:39:35 The race for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) chair is gaining momentum with multiple candidates vying for the position. The DNC chair will have a significant role in reshaping the Democratic party following recent election losses. The race is expected to explore tensions between progressive and moderate factions within the party, as well as the party's future direction and strategy.

Lobbying Shift to Florida

• 00:34:17 Lobbyists are increasingly focusing their efforts in Florida, anticipating that President-elect Trump will spend more time there. This shift represents a change from traditional lobbying practices in Washington D.C., with Mar-a-Lago becoming a significant hub for influence. Industries impacted by Trump's policies, such as those related to tariffs, taxes, and trade, are expected to be most active in this new lobbying landscape.