Hunter Biden Declares Alcohol "Most Destructive Drug," Suggests Crack Cocaine "Probably Safer"

In a candid interview with Andrew Callaghan of Channel 5, released in July 2025, Hunter Biden, son of former President Joe Biden, offered a provocative perspective on his past struggles with addiction, asserting that alcohol is "the most destructive drug" he has experienced, even suggesting crack cocaine is "probably safer." His remarks have drawn significant attention, shedding light on the complexities of substance abuse and public perception.

Biden, 55, who has been open about his long battle with alcoholism and crack cocaine addiction, detailed his personal experiences, stating, "I was drinking so much alcohol, almost a handle of vodka a day... And alcohol is the most destructive drug not just to your body, but it puts you in more danger than any other drug I’ve ever experienced." He further elaborated on crack cocaine, noting, "Is it safer than alcohol? Probably... People think about crack being dirty, it's the exact opposite." He explained that crack cocaine, in terms of physical health, is "not as dangerous as the situation you put yourself in to be able to obtain it."

The interview provided a rare and unfiltered look into Biden's recovery journey, which he states began with sobriety in 2019. He discussed the public scrutiny surrounding his addiction, particularly concerning the infamous "laptop" incident, and how the forced transparency ultimately aided his recovery by eliminating secrets. He emphasized the profound impact of his brother Beau's death on his relapse into severe addiction.

Biden's comments sparked widespread discussion, with figures like podcaster Joe Rogan weighing in. Rogan, while often critical of the Biden family, praised Hunter's candor, calling the interview "the greatest crack advertisement of all time" due to its raw honesty, though he cautioned against drug use. The discussion underscored the differing societal views and stigmas associated with various substances, particularly the racialized historical context of crack cocaine versus the normalized acceptance of alcohol. Biden noted the chemical similarity between crack and powder cocaine, highlighting that the primary difference lies in preparation and perception.