A recent exchange between former presidents has stirred controversy after Donald Trump suggested that Joe Biden may not have personally signed all executive orders during his presidency, implying the use of an autopen—a mechanical device that duplicates signatures.
Though Trump offered no evidence, his remarks fueled ongoing doubts about Biden’s leadership and mental fitness, asking supporters, “What does the man in the Oval Office look like if someone else is signing executive orders?”
Biden swiftly rejected the claim, telling ABC News, “I made the decisions during my presidency. I decided on the legislation, proclamations, executive orders, and pardons.
The idea that I didn’t is absurd and untrue.” He also dismissed Trump’s call for a mental fitness evaluation, calling it a distraction. While the use of autopens is legally allowed with presidential approval and has been employed by past presidents for routine matters, Trump’s criticism focused more on perception than legality, questioning whether Biden appeared fully in control.
Notably, Trump had expressed public support for Biden in 2024 when he was diagnosed with cancer, wishing him a full recovery—a rare show of civility that made headlines. But now, as Trump returns to the White House and political tensions rise, his autopen comments have reignited scrutiny of Biden’s presidency. Regardless of the outcome, Trump has once again shifted the conversation and reminded voters of his willingness to challenge established narratives.
