Written by Luke Thompson.

When news breaks about politicians and their families, it’s often brushed off as “just politics.” But what happens when allegations reveal millions of dollars flowing into a politician’s family from foreign oligarchs? That’s exactly what has people raising eyebrows about Hunter Biden’s dealings with Romania—and how his father, then-Vice President Joe Biden, was involved.

It’s a story of private jet rides, high-profile meetings, and millions wired across borders. If nothing else, it’s a reminder that those who claim to fight corruption aren’t always on the side of the angels.

A Deal That Smells Like Trouble

Let’s set the scene: It’s the early 2010s, and Joe Biden is globe-trotting as Vice President. One of his key talking points? Lecturing foreign governments about the dangers of corruption. In a speech to Romanian officials, he urged leaders to clean up their act, warning that a corrupt system undermines trust in democracy and hampers growth.

But here’s the kicker: While he was giving these speeches, Hunter Biden was reportedly pulling in $3.1 million from a Romanian oligarch. The payments allegedly came through a series of shell companies, making the money hard to track—a classic hallmark of shady dealings.

To everyday Americans, this might feel like the ultimate contradiction. On one hand, you’ve got Joe Biden warning countries about corruption. On the other, his son seems to be cashing in on those same connections.

How Did Hunter Get Involved?

If you’re wondering why Romania even came into the picture, you’re not alone. Romania isn’t exactly the first country people think of when it comes to U.S. foreign policy. However, it’s clear Hunter Biden’s involvement didn’t happen by accident.

At the center of this story is Gabriel Popoviciu, a wealthy Romanian businessman who was under investigation for corruption. Facing legal trouble, Popoviciu needed influential allies, and Hunter Biden’s name carried weight—especially since his father was a heartbeat away from the presidency.

Hunter wasn’t a seasoned diplomat or legal expert. So why was he paid millions? Critics argue that his role was less about expertise and more about influence. Popoviciu may have hoped Hunter could sway U.S. policy—or at least secure favorable treatment from American officials.

Following the Money

If you’ve ever watched a crime drama, you know the rule: Follow the money. In this case, payments to Hunter reportedly flowed through a network of companies that were tough to untangle.

The $3.1 million wasn’t handed over in one big check. Instead, it came in installments, routed through multiple entities. This setup wasn’t illegal on its own, but it sure doesn’t pass the smell test. Why go to such lengths unless you’re trying to keep something hidden?

Critics argue that these transactions raise serious ethical questions. Even if Joe Biden didn’t directly benefit, his family ties create a perception problem. How can a leader preach integrity while their inner circle is raking in foreign cash?

The Bigger Picture

This story isn’t just about Hunter Biden. It’s about what happens when power and money collide. Americans expect their leaders to serve the public, not use their positions to enrich their families.

Joe Biden has long presented himself as a champion of the middle class, someone who understands the struggles of everyday Americans. But revelations like this make people wonder: Is that image real, or is it just good PR?

The Biden family isn’t the first to face allegations of questionable business dealings. But the scale and scope of these transactions—millions from countries like Romania, Ukraine, and China—set it apart.

Our Take

Hunter Biden’s Romanian deal raises a crucial question: How can we trust public officials to act in our best interest when their families are tied up in murky foreign transactions? This isn’t just a Biden problem; it’s a government-wide issue.

When politicians’ families get rich off their connections, it erodes trust in the system. Regular Americans already feel like the deck is stacked against them. Stories like this only reinforce that belief.

It’s time for a serious conversation about ethics in public office. Whether you lean left, right, or somewhere in between, we should all agree on one thing: Corruption has no place in our government—or in the families of those who serve.

The DOJ officially admits Hunter Biden was bribed by a criminal Romanian oligarch to influence U.S. policy through Joe Biden. pic.twitter.com/SXHshzahwP

— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) January 21, 2025