Key Takeaways:
- Democrats dismiss Trump’s investigation into Biden’s autopen use as a political stunt.
- Autopen use by presidents is legal and common for efficiency.
- Republicans claim Biden was too old to lead, but experts disagree.
- Trump, who also used an autopen, spreads conspiracy theories about Biden.
Democrats Dismiss the Investigation
Democrats on Capitol Hill are laughing off Trump’s latest move to investigate Biden’s use of an autopen. The autopen is a machine that signs documents automatically, often used by busy leaders like presidents. Democrats call this investigation a “political stunt” aimed at distracting from real issues.
Senators like Jack Reed (D-RI) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) say this probe is just a way to shift attention away from problems like rising prices and economic challenges caused by tariffs. “It’s a gigantic distraction,” says Blumenthal.
What Is an Autopen, and Why Does It Matter?
An autopen is a device that replicates a person’s signature. Presidents use it to sign large numbers of documents quickly. For example, Biden used it to sign laws, pardons, and other official papers. Experts say this is a normal and legal practice.
However, some Republicans claim that documents signed by an autopen aren’t valid. They argue that Biden’s aides used the device because he was too old to keep up with the workload.
But Democrats point out that even Trump used an autopen during his time in office. “I don’t think there’s a there there,” says Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE), a close ally of Biden. “This is just a political point.”
A Political Distraction?
Coons, who served as a county executive, explains that using an autopen is necessary for running a large government. “When I was county executive, I had to sign thousands of documents. It’s impossible to sign every single one yourself,” he said.
Democrats also call out Trump for spreading conspiracy theories. For instance, Trump recently claimed that Biden was “executed” and replaced with clones or robots. While the autopen theory is less extreme, it’s part of a larger effort to question Biden’s fitness for office.
Biden, who was 78 when he took office and 82 when he left, faced criticism for his age. Some Republicans suggest that First Lady Jill Biden or aides ran the government behind the scenes. Coons, however, says Biden was fully capable of leading.
The Bigger Picture
At its core, this debate is about politics. Republicans are trying to weaken Biden’s legacy and distract from real issues. Democrats argue that the autopen investigation is a waste of time and taxpayer money.
But this isn’t the first time presidents have faced questions about their ability to lead. Coons brought up Edith Wilson, the wife of President Woodrow Wilson. After Wilson suffered a stroke in 1919, Edith reportedly handled many duties. However, Coons notes that Biden’s situation is different.
“I had breakfast with President Biden the last Friday he was in office. He was present, engaging, and clear,” Coons recalled. While Biden had some challenging moments, Coons sees no evidence that he wasn’t fit to lead.
What’s Next?
For now, this autopen controversy seems like just another chapter in the ongoing political battle between Trump and Biden. Democrats are pushing back hard, calling the investigation a baseless attack.
As the 2024 election approaches, expect more of these kinds of political fights. The question is whether voters will care about issues like autopen use or focus on bigger concerns like the economy and healthcare.
One thing is certain: this isn’t the last we’ve heard of Trump’s investigation or Biden’s autopen.