Trump Voids Biden’s Autopen Executive Orders, Sparking Legal Debate

Former President Donald Trump has declared all executive orders signed by autopen under the Biden administration “terminated.” He made the announcement on social media this week. The statement immediately ignited a fierce online debate.

Trump specifically threatened President Joe Biden with perjury over the use of the automatic signing device. He argued that documents not personally signed by Biden are invalid. This move challenges the legitimacy of numerous presidential actions.

Historical Use of Autopen Faces Modern Scrutiny

The autopen is a machine that replicates a handwritten signature. It has been used by US presidents for decades for routine documents. This includes everything from letters to constituents to formal bills.

According to the Associated Press, Trump himself has utilized the autopen during his presidency. He previously stated it should be reserved for “very insignificant documents.” His recent declaration, however, places a direct focus on its use for executive orders.

Legal Experts Question the Scope of the Declaration

Legal authorities are now weighing in on the constitutional implications. Conservative commentator Ed Whelan acknowledged a president’s power to revoke past executive orders. The method of their signing is largely irrelevant to that authority.

However, the legality of canceling other autopen-signed documents, like pardons, is less clear. A 2005 Justice Department opinion stated a president need not sign a bill by hand. An autopen signature, when authorized, is considered legally valid. This sets the stage for a potential legal confrontation over the boundaries of presidential power.

The controversy over the autopen strikes at the heart of modern governance, testing established norms against new political realities.

Thought you’d like to know

What is an autopen?

An autopen is a device that holds a pen and automatically signs a person’s name. It creates a physical signature in ink by tracing a stored sample. US presidents have used this technology for many years.

Has Trump used an autopen before?

Yes, Trump has confirmed his prior use of the autopen. He stated it should be used for minor correspondence, like letters to supporters or children. He did not use it for major actions like pardons during his term.

Is an autopen signature legally binding?

According to a Justice Department opinion from 2005, an autopen signature is legally valid. The opinion states a president can direct an official to affix the signature to a bill using the device. This has been standard practice for non-controversial documents.

What is the immediate impact of Trump’s statement?

The immediate impact is political and legal uncertainty. It challenges the validity of many Biden administration actions. Legal experts are now debating the enforceability of Trump’s declaration.

Why is Trump targeting the autopen now?

Trump frames the use of the autopen for important orders as an unacceptable shortcut. He argues it delegitimizes presidential actions. This aligns with his broader criticism of the Biden administration’s procedures.