Edith Hejberg
On Monday, Trump took to Truth Social to make the sweeping announcement: “Any document signed by Joe Biden with the autopen is hereby rescinded and has no legal effect.”
President Donald Trump announced that his administration is nullifying all documents signed by President Joe Biden using an autopen. This includes executive orders, pardons, commutations, and federal contracts, which Trump now declares legally invalid.
What is an autopen?
An autopen is a device used to replicate a person’s signature, commonly employed by public officials to expedite routine approvals.
Biden’s team used it on various occasions, a longstanding practice in U.S. government. However, Trump claims this undermines the legality of such documents.
Trump’s Truth Social statement
On Monday, Trump took to Truth Social to make the sweeping announcement: “Any document signed by Joe Biden with the autopen is hereby rescinded and has no legal effect.”
The post quickly spread across media and sparked legal scrutiny.
Wide range of documents impacted
Trump’s declaration affects a broad spectrum of government decisions.
Among them are presidential pardons, contract authorizations, and key policy orders issued during Biden’s term, all of which he claims now lack proper executive approval.
Claims of improper authorization
The Trump administration argues that the use of an autopen implies a lack of direct presidential involvement. “If Biden didn’t sign it himself, then he didn’t authorize it,” said one senior White House aide, backing the president’s move.
Legal challenges expected
Experts warn the legality of Trump’s blanket nullification is far from settled. While some argue that a president can reverse previous decisions, others believe challenging a document based solely on autopen use may not hold up in court.
Pardons and commutations targeted
Among the most controversial elements of Trump’s order are Biden-era pardons and commutations. Legal analysts say revoking these retroactively could face fierce opposition and possible constitutional challenges.
Federal contracts in limbo
Trump also voided multiple contracts approved under Biden’s name if signed with an autopen. This could disrupt government programs, delay infrastructure projects, and create uncertainty for contractors working with federal agencies.
Accusations of illegal use
Trump claimed that those who operated the autopen during Biden’s term “did so illegally,” though he did not provide further details. His administration has not yet announced investigations or charges against any specific individuals.
Warning to beneficiaries
In a stern warning, Trump said any individuals or companies attempting to invoke rights granted under the now-nullified documents will have their claims denied. “They are void under this administration,” he added.
Echoes of past claims
Trump and his allies have long questioned the legitimacy of Biden’s executive actions. Some conservative commentators previously used Biden’s autopen use to suggest he was not fully aware of what he was authorizing.
Announcement follows earlier hints
This sweeping measure follows earlier statements made by Trump last Friday. At that time, he hinted he would cancel contracts and agreements from the previous administration, calling them “improperly executed.”
A polarizing political move
Trump’s decision is likely to deepen partisan tensions. Supporters view it as an overdue correction, while critics argue it undermines established legal norms and could throw years of governance into chaos.
