White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre had no explanations Tuesday for why President Biden’s embattled son, Hunter Biden, traveled with his dad aboard Marine One, but was not listed as a passenger on the presidential helicopter.
Hunter Biden is facing a slew of legal issues after defying a congressional subpoena to testify before House investigators last week. He has also been indicted on federal gun and tax charges, facing a combined 42 years behind bars.
The president returned to the White House Tuesday morning after spending Monday at his home in Wilmington, Delaware, where he marked the anniversary of the 1972 car accident that took the lives of his first wife and daughter.
He arrived at the White House via Marine One, and Hunter Biden got off the helicopter with his dad. His name was not included on the list of travelers the White House provides to the press whenever Mr. Biden takes a trip.
Ms. Jean-Pierre said she didn’t know whether family members needed to be included on passenger lists for Air Force One or Marine One. She then quickly pivoted to discuss the death of Mr. Biden’s first wife, Neilia.
“Obviously you’ve seen the president with his family the past couple of days and I think you know why. They were observing a very somber anniversary for them,” she said. “This was a somber moment in the family so they were certainly together to acknowledge and take part in that anniversary. We want to be really sensitive to that.”
When asked if the White House was attempting to conceal Hunter Biden’s presence amid his legal woes, Ms. Jean-Pierre urged reporters to reach out to his representatives.
“The president and the first lady love their son very much,” she said.
Ms. Jean-Pierre declined to say if the White House will change its policy to announce when family members travel with the president.
Marine One is funded by taxpayers. Presidents are permitted to bring family members aboard the helicopter as well as Air Force One, but the relatives are required to reimburse taxpayers.
Flying aboard official government aircraft is considered a taxable fringe benefit and any relatives who travel with the president must pay taxes at the equivalent of having received a first-class seat for the same itinerary.
Ms. Jean-Pierre did not say if Hunter Biden paid for his seat.
• Jeff Mordock can be reached at jmordock@washingtontimes.com.
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