In a dramatic revelation, President Joe Biden is reported to have privately expressed regret over his decision to appoint Merrick Garland as attorney general, given the legal challenges facing his son, Hunter Biden.

The revelations about the president's apparent frustration with Garland emerge in journalist Bob Woodward's upcoming book, which also highlights Biden's strategic withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race amid internal tensions, as the Daily Mail reports.

Hunter Biden has been the focus of several legal challenges, fueling tensions within the Biden administration. The situation intensified when charges against Hunter, aged 54, were pursued vigorously by the Justice Department under Garland's leadership.

Hunter Faces Legal Issues in Federal Court

In June, Hunter Biden faced a conviction in a Delaware federal court on three felony counts related to the purchase of a firearm in 2018. The charges stemmed from allegations that he provided false information regarding his drug use on the purchase form.

The legal woes continued into September when Hunter entered a guilty plea in a Los Angeles federal court. The indictment included nine counts, with three felony tax charges and six misdemeanor tax offenses, adding further strain to the Biden family's personal and political lives.

Publicly, President Biden maintained a facade of neutrality concerning his son’s legal predicaments. However, within private circles, frustration with Garland's decisions was reportedly evident.

Biden's Discontent Revealed by Bob Woodward

Woodward has provided excerpts from his forthcoming book that shed light on Biden's simmering discontent. The book paints a picture of the president's anger over Hunter's prosecution, exemplified in a candid remark about his choice of Garland as attorney general.

"Should never have picked Garland. This is never going to f**king go away," Biden reportedly expressed, according to Woodward's account.

Woodward's book further explores a notable 2022 meeting at the White House, in which Hunter addressed his personal struggles with President Biden.

Political Repercussions and Midterm Elections

The legal drama surrounding Hunter Biden had repercussions during the 2022 midterm elections. Republicans seized on the issue in their campaign against President Biden, attempting to weaken his political standing through associations with Hunter's legal issues.

These attacks were amplified by Donald Trump and his supporters, who saw an opportunity to undermine Biden's administration.

The political fallout was significant, adding to internal tensions and influencing strategic decisions within the Biden administration with references to Hunter's difficulties.

Biden's Decision to Withdraw from 2024 Race

Woodward's book also includes insights into President Biden's decision to step back from the 2024 presidential race. This decision was influenced by discussions with prominent Cabinet members who advised him on the potential impact of a re-election campaign.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken played a key role in these discussions. During a pivotal lunch on July 4 of this year, Blinken shared his perspective with Biden, cautioning him about the implications for his legacy.

"I don't want to see your legacy jeopardized," Blinken reportedly told Biden. "Anyone who is written about gets one sentence. That's the legacy."

Blinken's Candid Discussion with Biden

Continuing the conversation, Blinken posed a crucial question to Biden: "Can you see yourself doing it for another four years?" This moment underscored the gravity of the decision facing the president.

Ultimately, on July 21, Biden announced he would not seek reelection. Instead, he endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to spearhead the Democratic ticket.

The revelations in Woodward's book offer a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics within the Biden administration during a turbulent period marked by personal and political challenges.