Key Takeaways

• Donald Trump vows to cancel every executive order Joe Biden signed with an autopen.
• Trump amplified a far-right claim that Michelle Obama “may have used” Biden’s autopen.
• Critics call this autopen move illegal, baseless, and chaotic.
• Trump labels Biden “crooked” and promises to void up to 92 percent of his orders.

Donald Trump has doubled down on a claim about Joe Biden’s autopen. The former president says he will revoke almost all executive orders signed that way. He argues that roughly 92 percent of Biden’s orders used an autopen device rather than his own hand. Therefore, Trump insists they have no force and effect.

Trump made the announcement on Truth Social. He wrote that any document signed by “Sleepy Joe Biden with the Autopen, which was approximately 92 percent of them, is hereby terminated, and of no further force or effect.” Even a week after showing off a framed autopen signature to a Saudi prince, Trump remains focused on the issue.

Why Trump Focuses on the Autopen

Trump has long alleged that Biden relied too much on an autopen. He claims staffers or outside handlers forged Biden’s signature in key moments. However, no evidence has emerged to back this theory. In fact, presidents often use autopens for routine papers when they travel. Yet Trump treats the autopen like a smoking gun.

Meanwhile, Trump shared a screenshot from a far-right site that alleged Michelle Obama “may have used” Biden’s autopen to grant pardons. Alex Jones and Patrick Byrne pushed the wild idea. Trump reposted it without proof. Such actions feed conspiracy theories and stoke his base.

What Triggered This Autopen Claim

It began when Trump hinted he would unwind all Biden’s autopen orders. He then showed a framed autopen signature photo to Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman, replacing Biden’s portrait. This stunt grabbed headlines but lacked any official impact. Since then, Trump has repeated the autopen claim several times.

Furthermore, Trump tied the autopen issue to his broader argument that Biden is too old and out of touch. He calls him “crooked” for supposedly letting others sign major orders. By focusing on the autopen, Trump aims to paint Biden as a puppet president.

Reactions to Trump’s Autopen Decree

The public response has ranged from amusement to alarm. One viral post on X read, “The president is a lunatic.” Many see the autopen talk as another baseless Trump conspiracy. Political commentator Brian Krassenstein went further. He argued Trump’s plan to cancel autopen orders is illegal and self-serving. Krassenstein noted that Trump himself used an autopen hundreds of times while in office.

Legal experts say executive orders stand or fall in court, regardless of how they were signed. They point out that an autopen is an accepted practice for routine paperwork. It does not invalidate a president’s authority. Therefore, Trump’s cancellation plan likely faces serious challenges.

Possible Legal Issues Over Autopen Cancellations

First, a president cannot unilaterally erase valid orders. Courts require due process before voiding any law. Second, Trump must name specific orders he intends to cancel. Without a clear list, his declaration lacks legal substance. Third, agencies and officials rely on those orders for ongoing programs. Revoking them overnight could cause chaos in government operations.

In addition, no law bans autopen use for executive orders. Past administrations have used it without controversy. Thus, Trump’s focus on the device itself seems purely political. It lets him claim a bold move without real policy detail.

What Comes Next for Autopen Orders

Looking ahead, Trump’s plan may become a talking point at rallies. He could keep using the autopen theory to rally supporters. However, when or if he returns to the White House, legal teams will review any attempted cancellations. It remains unclear whether courts or Congress would block him.

On the other hand, Trump’s opponents will push back hard. They will highlight his own autopen use and warn of legal battles. Meanwhile, the public may grow tired of autopen claims and demand more concrete policies.

Transitioning into policy debates might help Trump shift attention. Yet for now, the autopen remains a flashpoint in his feud with President Biden. It shows how political battles can hinge on procedural details rather than big ideas.

FAQs

How common is autopen use by presidents?

Autopens are common for routine documents when a president travels. They help staff manage paperwork efficiently. However, major orders often require personal signatures.

Can Trump legally cancel Biden’s autopen orders?

Legal experts doubt it. Executive orders require clear authority and record-keeping. Canceling them en masse without proper review could face court challenges.

Why did Trump share a claim about Michelle Obama and the autopen?

Trump reposted a screenshot from a far-right site. He likely wanted to amplify conspiracy theories against Biden’s circle. There is no proof behind that specific claim.

What impact does revoking executive orders have?

Revoking orders can pause or end programs created under those orders. It may disrupt policies on immigration, environment, and more. Any sudden change risks legal and administrative chaos.