The toll of Hunter Biden's legal troubles on his father, President Joe Biden, contributed to his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, according to a new book.
In his upcoming book, "War," renowned Watergate reporter Bob Woodward provides an intimate look inside the presidencies of both Donald Trump and Joe Biden. Woodward captures the personal struggles faced by both leaders, including the impact of Hunter Biden's legal woes on the elder Biden.
According to Woodward, Biden initially resisted calls to drop out of the race following his disastrous performance in the first presidential debate. However, the relentless pressure, coupled with concerns about his son's investigations, ultimately swayed his decision.
Hunter Biden's Troubles Weighed Heavily on Biden's Decision to Exit Race
Secretary of State Antony Blinken played a pivotal role in Biden's decision. In a private lunch, Blinken candidly expressed his disapproval of Biden staying in the race, citing the potential damage to his legacy and the toll it would take on him personally.
Woodward reports that Biden's "real war" was his son's troubles. The president grappled with the guilt of knowing that his presidency had drawn attention to Hunter's legal issues. This deep sense of responsibility weighed heavily on him, leaving him "heartbroken."
Hunter Biden's Troubles Weighed Heavily on Biden's Decision to Exit Race
According to sources cited by Woodward, Biden's concern for Hunter overshadowed even the major international crises unfolding during his first term, including the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The president's preoccupation with his son's struggles took a significant toll on him.
Blinken, who has two young children, empathized deeply with Biden's situation. He questioned Biden's desire to endure another four years of intense scrutiny and the potential impact on his son.
Hunter Biden's Troubles Weighed Heavily on Biden's Decision to Exit Race
Woodward's book does not explicitly state the extent to which Hunter's legal woes influenced Biden's decision to step down. However, it is clear that these concerns played a significant role in his thinking. The White House has declined to comment on the matter.
"War" offers an unflinching glimpse into one of the most emotionally challenging periods of Biden's presidency. It highlights the complex relationship between a father and his troubled son, and the personal sacrifices that can be required for the sake of a nation.
Hunter Biden's Troubles Weighed Heavily on Biden's Decision to Exit Race
The book is scheduled for release on October 15th and is expected to shed new light on the inner workings of the Biden presidency and the challenges it has faced.
