Trump Vows to Revoke Biden’s Autopen-Signed Executive Orders
Former President Donald Trump recently expressed intentions to revoke executive orders signed by President Joe Biden, claiming they were executed using an autopen. In a post shared on social media, Trump estimated that about 92% of Biden’s executive orders were not personally signed by him but instead generated by a machine that mimics signatures.
Trump’s Claims Against Biden’s Executive Orders
Trump stated, “Any document signed by Sleepy Joe Biden with the Autopen is hereby terminated, and of no further force or effect.” He argues that Biden, who occupied the Oval Office until January at age 82, lacked control due to his advanced age and mental state. Trump further threatened to pursue legal action against Biden should he contest these claims.
History of the Autopen
The use of autopen devices has a long-standing tradition in the White House. Originally utilized during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, several presidents, including Trump, have employed similar technology. Despite this historical precedent, Trump has targeted Biden’s reliance on autopen as a means to question the legitimacy of his decisions.
- Trump asserts he would cancel all executive orders not signed directly by Biden.
- Biden denies using the autopen without personal knowledge.
- Trump has criticized Biden for the perceived misuse of the technology, pushing claims of illegitimacy.
Critics Challenge Trump’s Narrative
Legal experts have largely dismissed Trump’s assertions. They contend that the Constitution does not stipulate how presidential pardons or executive orders must be signed. A memo from the US Office of Legal Counsel in 2005 clarified that a president may authorize a subordinate to sign documents, making the use of an autopen acceptable.
Biden’s Response and Political Context
Biden himself rebuffed Trump’s allegations, asserting, “Let me be clear: I made the decisions during my presidency.” Despite Biden’s clarification, Trump continues to claim that the Democratic Party manipulated the presidency away from Biden, whom he derisively refers to as “Crooked Joe.”
This political drama is exacerbated by the context of aging leadership in America. Both Biden and Trump are perceived to be vulnerable due to their ages, with public discussions around mental acuity and ability to govern effectively. Biden is currently undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, while Trump himself faces scrutiny concerning his health and stamina while in office.
Conclusion
As Trump initiates his campaign against Biden’s executive actions, the political landscape remains charged with age-related concerns and allegations of illegitimacy. This situation may significantly impact the political strategies and public perception leading up to the next elections.
