Following President Biden's full pardon of his son, Hunter, two IRS whistleblowers who previously testified before Congress regarding alleged Justice Department interference in Hunter's tax investigation case expressed their lack of surprise, but also their disappointment, in an exclusive interview with Fox News.

Gary Shapley, an IRS supervisory special agent, and Joseph Ziegler, a special agent with the IRS' criminal investigation division, shared their reactions with Martha MacCallum on "The Story." Shapley stated the pardon was "expected" given the legal maneuvering but criticized President Biden for misleading the public about his intentions.

Hunter Biden faced charges including felony tax offenses and misdemeanors related to a firearm purchase. President Biden's pardon covers a decade, from 2014 to 2024, for any offenses committed during that period. The President justified the pardon by claiming Hunter was unfairly targeted due to his family connections, aiming to "break" him and, by extension, the President himself.

Ziegler countered the President's assertion, calling it "completely ludicrous" and emphasizing that thousands of taxpayers diligently fulfill their tax obligations and should feel let down by this preferential treatment. He expressed disappointment that Hunter Biden received a "free pass." Ziegler, identifying as a Democrat, stressed his belief in the rule of law and the importance of equal application regardless of political status.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis, also a Democrat, voiced his disappointment on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing the decision for prioritizing family over country and setting a negative precedent. Polis argued that while empathy for Hunter Biden's struggles is warranted, accountability under the law should apply equally to everyone, including the President's son.