Former President Donald Trump has announced his intention to revoke all orders that were signed by President Joe Biden using an autopen, a device used for reproducing signatures. This statement was made on Truth Social, where Trump labeled Biden’s use of the autopen as illegitimate.
Key Announcement from Trump
Trump declared, “Any document signed” by Biden through the use of an autopen “is hereby terminated, and of no further force or effect.” He emphasized the illegality of Biden’s signatures and threatened potential legal repercussions if Biden claimed to have participated in the signing process.
Biden’s Executive Orders
During his presidency, Biden signed a total of 162 executive orders. However, the exact number signed using an autopen remains unclear. It is not uncommon for incoming presidents to revoke directives established by their predecessors.
Trump’s Actions on Biden’s Orders
Since taking office on January 20, Trump has already rescinded nearly 70 of Biden’s executive orders. Additionally, he canceled another 19 orders on March 14, further emphasizing his commitment to overturning Biden’s initiatives.
Concerns Over Autopen Use
Trump previously initiated an investigation into the Biden administration’s use of the autopen for signing presidential documents, including pardons. He accused Biden’s team of participating in a conspiracy to mask the president’s cognitive decline by using the autopen.
Biden Responds
In response to Trump’s allegations, Biden referred to them as “nothing more than distraction.” He adamantly stated, “I made the decisions during my presidency,” including those regarding pardons and executive orders.
House Republicans’ Findings
A report released by House Republicans last month criticized Biden’s use of the autopen. However, it did not provide definitive evidence that Biden’s aides acted without his knowledge.
Legal Precedents for Autopen Use
The use of an autopen has been a longstanding practice among U.S. presidents. In 2005, the Justice Department, under President George W. Bush, confirmed the legal standing of autopen signatures for signing bills into law.
Trump’s Acknowledgment of Autopen Use
In March, Trump acknowledged that he, too, has utilized an autopen but claimed it was reserved for “very unimportant papers.” This admission adds another layer to the ongoing discourse surrounding the legitimate use of the autopen in presidential affairs.
As the situation unfolds, the debate over the legitimacy of Biden’s autopen-signed orders continues to garner attention from both political sides. The ramifications of Trump’s latest announcement remain to be seen as both leaders stand firm in their positions.
