Biden Confirms Responsibility in White House Autopen Use Amid GOP Investigation

Former President Joe Biden addressed the growing scrutiny over his use of an autopen during his tenure, firmly maintaining on Wednesday that he exercised full control over all presidential actions and directives while in office. The clarification comes amid an escalating investigation by Republican lawmakers, who have raised concerns about the extent to which the autopen—a device used to replicate signatures—was utilized for official documents.

“I made the decisions about the pardons, executive orders, legislation, and proclamations. Any suggestion that I didn’t is ridiculous and false,” Biden stated, pushing back against criticism that the use of the machine implied a lack of direct oversight or involvement in critical presidential matters. The former president emphasized that, regardless of the method of signature, he personally authorized each order and directive issued from the Oval Office.

The use of autopen technology has been a longstanding practice in American government, primarily employed for logistical efficiency, especially when swift action is required, or the president is traveling. However, recent questions from Capitol Hill have shifted the debate onto whether such a practice could blur the lines of presidential accountability, with GOP investigators calling for greater transparency regarding the frequency and circumstances surrounding its utilization during Biden's administration.

Biden’s forceful remarks are part of a broader effort to assure both lawmakers and the public of his leadership during his term. As the congressional inquiry continues, there is mounting pressure on both current and former White House officials to provide documentation and communication records related to the signing of major pieces of legislation, executive orders, and high-profile pardons.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.