In a surprising turn of events, Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, is now facing trial on federal gun charges, adding to the mounting political and personal challenges that have plagued him for years. The trial, set to begin with jury selection in Delaware on Monday, will not revolve around Hunter Biden's business dealings, which have been under federal investigation for quite some time, but rather the possession of a firearm.

Hunter Biden is accused of purchasing a .38-caliber Colt Cobra Special illegally in October 2018. Prosecutors allege that he falsely stated on a federal form that he was not a drug user, making the transaction unlawful. Interestingly, the gun was allegedly never fired and was eventually discarded in a trash can. This trial will not shed light on the controversial foreign business matters that Republicans have often attacked the Biden family for, but it is expected to bring forth deeply personal and embarrassing testimony from Hunter Biden's troubled past.

For those who have sought to vilify Hunter Biden, this trial offers new political ammunition. Republicans and allies of former President Donald Trump may seize this opportunity to divert attention from their own legal challenges, with Trump recently facing conviction on 34 felony counts in his hush money trial. The trial's potential impact on President Joe Biden's reelection campaign is also a source of concern for his allies, as they fear it may distract from the campaign's focus and exacerbate already tepid poll numbers.

Amidst the tumultuous legal proceedings, allies of Joe Biden express worry for his son's well-being and sobriety. The trial will undoubtedly force Hunter Biden's darkest moments into the public arena, which may prove emotionally taxing for both father and son. Additionally, the timing coincides with President Biden's preparation for a June 27 debate against Trump, further compounding concerns about potential distractions.

Interestingly, it initially appeared that Hunter Biden would avoid prosecution altogether in the gun case. Last June, a deal was announced where he would plead guilty to misdemeanor tax offenses related to a separate investigation into his financial affairs. Prosecutors would have recommended two years of probation, and a "diversion agreement" would have allowed him to evade prosecution on the felony gun charge if he remained out of legal trouble for two years.

As Hunter Biden's federal gun trial commences, it promises to be a high-stakes affair. While it may not delve into the intricate details of his business dealings, it will undoubtedly provide a platform for personal and embarrassing revelations. The outcome of the trial will likely have significant political implications, potentially impacting Joe Biden's reelection campaign and offering his critics an opportunity to renew their attacks.