Trump Moves to Void Biden-Signed Documents in New Autopen Directive

Trump announced on Truth Social that he is canceling all documents he claims were signed by Biden via autopen, asserting they carry “no legal effect.” The autopen, a mechanical device that replicates signatures for high-volume or ceremonial paperwork, has been used by presidents from both parties — including George W. Bush and Barack Obama — and is considered an accepted part of White House operations.

Trump and close allies have promoted unsubstantiated claims that Biden’s use of the device shows he was not fully engaged in governing. It remains unknown whether Biden used the autopen specifically for pardons, but the suggestion that such documents could be invalidated is widely seen as legally questionable.

Before leaving office in January, Biden issued several pardons and commutations, including for family members and non-violent drug offenders. These actions followed standard presidential authority, and Biden’s team has rejected Trump’s repeated insinuations that the former president lacked awareness or capacity when governing.

Trump’s directive fits into his broader strategy of undermining Biden’s legitimacy, often questioning his cognitive fitness and suggesting shadow advisers made key decisions. Former Biden aides have firmly pushed back, saying the president was fully engaged and personally responsible for official actions.

As Trump continues his confrontational approach, legal experts and political observers note that the directive is largely symbolic — but one that adds fuel to an already contentious political climate.