By Michael Kelman Portney

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview of the Press Release

On December 1, 2024, President Joe Biden delivered a significant press release announcing the pardon of his son, Hunter Biden. This announcement came amidst a backdrop of political scrutiny and public debate surrounding Hunter's past legal troubles, particularly related to his struggles with addiction and the implications of his actions. The press release not only served as a formal declaration of the pardon but also as a strategic communication aimed at addressing the complexities of familial loyalty, justice, and public perception.

1.2 Importance of Rhetorical Analysis

Rhetorical analysis is a critical tool for understanding how language and persuasion function in public discourse. By examining the rhetorical strategies employed in Biden's speech, we can gain insights into how he navigates the contentious political landscape while appealing to a diverse audience. Aristotle's framework of ethos, pathos, and logos provides a robust lens through which to analyze the effectiveness of Biden's communication.

1.3 Thesis Statement

This analysis will explore how President Biden's December 1 press release employs Aristotle’s three modes of persuasion—ethos, pathos, and logos—to construct a compelling narrative that justifies his decision to pardon Hunter Biden while resonating with a wide range of listeners.

2. Ethos: Establishing Credibility

2.1 Biden’s Commitment to Judicial Independence

Ethos, or the appeal to credibility and ethics, is a cornerstone of Biden’s rhetoric. He begins his speech by asserting his commitment to judicial independence, stating:

“From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making, and I kept my word until today.”

This assertion serves to establish Biden as a principled leader who respects the rule of law. By emphasizing his adherence to this principle, he seeks to build trust with his audience. The phrase “until today” introduces a pivotal moment, suggesting that his decision to pardon Hunter is not taken lightly but is a necessary deviation from his established policy.

2.2 Personal vs. Professional Responsibilities

Biden further enhances his ethos by juxtaposing his roles as a father and as President:

“As a father, my duty is to protect my children. As President, my duty is to uphold justice.”

This duality resonates with many in the audience who can relate to the complexities of balancing personal and professional responsibilities. By framing his decision in this manner, Biden positions himself as both relatable and authoritative, reinforcing his credibility as a leader who understands the weight of his choices.

2.3 Building Trust with the Audience

Throughout the speech, Biden’s tone remains earnest and sincere, which is crucial for establishing ethos. He acknowledges the potential backlash he may face, yet he remains steadfast in his conviction. This transparency not only enhances his credibility but also invites the audience to engage with his reasoning rather than dismiss it outright.

3. Pathos: Emotional Resonance

3.1 Humanizing Hunter Biden

Pathos, or emotional appeal, is a significant element of Biden’s speech. He humanizes Hunter by discussing his struggles with addiction and recovery:

“There has been an effort to break Hunter – who has been five and a half years sober, even in the face of unrelenting attacks and selective prosecution.”

This line is crafted to evoke empathy from the audience, portraying Hunter not merely as a political figure but as a person who has faced significant challenges. By emphasizing Hunter’s sobriety and resilience, Biden seeks to shift the narrative from one of condemnation to one of understanding and compassion.

3.2 The Impact of Addiction and Recovery

Biden’s acknowledgment of addiction as a disease rather than a moral failing is a powerful rhetorical choice. It taps into the audience’s sense of justice and fairness, particularly in a society increasingly aware of the complexities surrounding addiction. By framing Hunter’s experiences in this light, Biden appeals to the audience’s emotions, fostering a sense of solidarity and compassion.

3.3 Framing the Pardon as a Personal Act

The emotional stakes of the pardon are further underscored when Biden states:

“I do this not for politics, but for family, and for fairness.”

This statement positions the pardon as a deeply personal act rather than a politically motivated decision. By invoking family values and fairness, Biden appeals to the audience’s emotions, reinforcing the idea that his actions are rooted in love and compassion rather than political expediency.

4. Logos: The Logical Argument

4.1 Legal Precedent for the Pardon

Logos, or logical reasoning, is another critical component of Biden’s rhetoric. He provides a rational basis for the pardon by referencing legal precedents:

“Without aggravating factors – such as smuggling, trafficking, or violence – people are almost never brought to trial on felony charges solely for how they handled a firearm while under the influence of a substance.”

By grounding his argument in legal norms, Biden positions his decision as consistent with established practices. This logical appeal serves to bolster his assertion that Hunter’s prosecution was politically motivated, framing the pardon as a necessary corrective measure.

4.2 Addressing Potential Criticisms

Biden anticipates potential criticisms of his decision, stating:

“Some will say this decision undermines the rule of law. I would argue it restores it.”

This line is particularly effective in reframing the narrative. By addressing the criticism head-on, Biden not only acknowledges dissenting opinions but also uses logical reasoning to challenge the audience’s assumptions. This approach shifts the focus from partisanship to principle, reinforcing the legitimacy of his decision.

4.3 Reframing the Narrative

Biden’s ability to reframe the narrative is a testament to his rhetorical skill. By positioning the pardon as a restoration of justice rather than an act of favoritism, he invites the audience to reconsider their perspectives. This logical restructuring is crucial in persuading skeptics and reinforcing the rationale behind his decision.

5. Conclusion

5.1 Summary of Rhetorical Strategies

In conclusion, President Biden’s December 1 speech exemplifies the effective use of Aristotle’s rhetorical strategies—ethos, pathos, and logos. By establishing his credibility, appealing to the audience’s emotions, and providing logical reasoning, Biden constructs a compelling narrative that seeks to justify his decision to pardon Hunter Biden.

5.2 The Significance of Effective Communication

The significance of effective communication in public discourse cannot be overstated. Biden’s speech serves as a reminder of the power of rhetoric in shaping public opinion and navigating complex issues. By skillfully employing rhetorical strategies, he not only addresses a contentious topic but also fosters a sense of understanding and empathy among his audience.

5.3 Final Thoughts on the Speech's Impact

Whether one agrees or disagrees with Biden’s decision, the rhetorical sophistication of his speech is undeniable. It highlights the enduring relevance of Aristotle’s teachings and the importance of effective communication in the political arena. As we continue to engage with complex societal issues, the ability to articulate a compelling narrative will remain a vital skill for leaders and communicators alike.