Hunter Biden appeared on California Governor Gavin Newsom's podcast to discuss his father's controversial pardon and defend a Democratic Senate candidate facing scrutiny.

During the interview, Hunter Biden addressed the pardon he received from President Joe Biden in 2024, telling Newsom that his father "chose me over his legacy." He characterized the pardon as evidence of "how much you know my dad loves me," framing the decision in personal rather than political terms.

The conversation also turned to Maine Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner, who has faced questions about past controversies including allegations involving Nazi tattoos and sexting. Hunter Biden came to Platner's defense during the podcast, dismissing these controversies.

The podcast appearance represents one of Hunter Biden's more public discussions of his father's pardon decision, which drew significant criticism from Republicans and some Democrats when it was announced. The pardon covered potential federal charges related to tax issues and gun possession.

Newsom's podcast has become a platform for Democratic political figures, with the California governor using it to engage with national political topics as he maintains a high profile within the party.