Trump Orders Probe Into Biden’s Use of Autopen, Claims Major Presidential Signature Scandal
In a surprising move Wednesday, former President Donald Trump launched an investigation into whether President Joe Biden’s administration used an autopen — that’s a fancy term for a mechanical signature machine — to sign important presidential documents like pardons. This comes months after Trump accused Biden’s pardons of being illegitimate, stirring up fresh political controversy.
What’s the Big Deal About the Autopen?
Presidents have been using autopens for decades, especially to handle routine paperwork when they can’t physically sign every document. For instance, back in 2005, the Justice Department under George W. Bush clarified that it’s perfectly legal for the president to use an autopen to sign bills into law. Even Trump admitted to occasionally using an autopen himself, but only for “very unimportant papers.”
So, why is this a scandal now? Well, Trump and his supporters argue that Biden’s use of the autopen crosses a line. According to Trump, if Biden’s aides secretly used the autopen for critical actions like pardons or appointing federal judges, it raises serious questions about the legality and authenticity of those decisions. They say it might even suggest Biden’s mental state was compromised, and that his staff might have been pulling the strings behind the scenes without the president’s full awareness.
Trump’s Allegations and the Investigation Order
In a memo signed late Wednesday, Trump directed Attorney General Pam Bondi and the president’s counsel to dig into what he called a “conspiracy” involving the “abuse of Presidential signatures” through an autopen. The memo argues that there are “serious doubts” about Biden’s decision-making ability and whether he was even aware of many executive actions being carried out in his name.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what Trump wants investigated:
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Did Biden’s advisers secretly use the autopen to sign presidential documents?
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Which executive actions involved the autopen?
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Who authorized or directed the use of the autopen?
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Was there a deliberate effort to mislead the public about Biden’s mental state?
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Did aides unconstitutionally exercise presidential powers in Biden’s stead?
This isn’t just about signatures — Trump is painting a picture of a larger scheme that could undermine the validity of numerous executive actions taken during Biden’s tenure.
Biden’s Side of the Story
As of now, Biden’s team hasn’t commented on Trump’s investigation order. Given the long history of autopen use by presidents, Biden’s camp likely sees this as a political stunt. But the timing is notable — the scrutiny over Biden’s mental fitness has intensified recently, especially as new reports surfaced about his decision to exit the 2024 presidential race.
Political Context: Mental Fitness and Pardons Under Fire
The autopen investigation is unfolding amid heightened debate about Biden’s mental and physical health while in office. On Wednesday, Republican Rep. James Comer, chair of the House Oversight Committee, pushed Biden’s closest aides with questions about the president’s “mental and physical faculties” during his term.
This political pressure follows months of Trump’s repeated claims that the 2020 presidential election was rigged — claims widely dismissed for lack of evidence. Now Trump’s calling this autopen issue "THE BIGGEST POLITICAL SCANDAL IN AMERICAN HISTORY," aside from the election controversy.
Meanwhile, legal experts have weighed in on the pardons Trump disputes. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson explained in March that even if an autopen was involved, Trump cannot undo pardons issued by Biden. “This is not a gray area,” Levinson said bluntly.
What’s at Stake?
If the investigation finds that Biden’s team improperly used the autopen for critical decisions, the legal implications could be huge. It could mean that some pardons, judicial appointments, or other executive orders might be legally questionable. That’s a big deal — it calls into question the legitimacy of actions taken by the current administration.
But it’s important to remember that autopen use itself isn’t illegal. The question here hinges on whether Biden was knowingly involved or if aides overstepped their bounds due to concerns about his cognitive state.
Key Points to Remember
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Autopen has been used by presidents for decades — it’s a tool, not inherently illegal.
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Trump alleges Biden’s aides used the autopen to hide cognitive decline.
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The investigation targets the legitimacy of pardons, judge appointments, and other executive actions.
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Legal experts say pardons can’t be revoked, autopen or not.
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The probe could reveal whether Biden’s team unlawfully assumed presidential powers.
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The controversy fuels ongoing debates about Biden’s mental fitness and leadership.
What Happens Next?
The ball is now in Attorney General Pam Bondi’s court. The Trump-directed probe will attempt to uncover the truth behind the autopen’s role in Biden’s administration. But legal experts suggest the investigation faces a high bar: proving unauthorized use of power or forging signatures is tough, especially when autopen use is a known and accepted practice.
Regardless of the outcome, expect this issue to fuel political fireworks heading into the next election cycle. For Trump and his supporters, this autopen angle is yet another line of attack questioning Biden’s capacity to lead.
Final Thoughts
In today’s political landscape, every signature, pardon, and appointment is scrutinized through a highly partisan lens. Trump’s autopen investigation is a vivid example of how presidential procedures can become battlegrounds for larger cultural and political wars.
Whether this turns into a legal crisis or fades as another chapter in political theater depends largely on what evidence comes to light. One thing’s for sure — the American public will be watching closely as the debate over presidential authority, mental fitness, and executive legitimacy continues to unfold.
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