Former President Donald Trump has called for an investigation into allegations that President Joe Biden used an autopen to sign documents during his presidency. Trump claims this practice was a way to hide Biden’s cognitive decline and deceive the public about his ability to fulfill presidential duties.
In a memo released recently, Trump urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to look into whether Biden’s aides conspired to mislead Americans regarding his mental state. He pointed out that the president’s signature is crucial for making laws, appointing officials, and issuing pardons. Trump argues that the use of an autopen to sign documents could mean that decisions were made without Biden’s full awareness or consent.
Trump’s memo highlights concerns that Biden’s cognitive issues were evident even in private, suggesting that his team restricted his public appearances and scripted his conversations to manage the narrative. He described the situation as one of the most concerning scandals in American history, claiming it undermines the legitimacy of Biden’s executive actions.
During Biden’s presidency, over 1,200 presidential documents were issued, including significant appointments and pardons. Trump criticized Biden for commuting the sentences of 37 dangerous criminals just before Christmas 2024, saying it raised questions about Biden’s decision-making abilities.
The investigation Trump is calling for would examine how the autopen was used, the types of documents it signed, and whether Biden’s team made false public statements about his capabilities. House Republicans, led by Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, have also started their own investigation into whether Biden was mentally fit to use the autopen.
This situation raises serious questions about the transparency of presidential actions and the responsibilities of those around the president. The outcome of these investigations could have significant implications for how executive power is exercised in the future.