President Donald Trump declared that any document signed by former President Joe Biden using the autopen is “hereby terminated” and without legal effect. He argued that Biden relied heavily on the device, claiming that about 92% of his documents were signed this way. Trump alleged that Biden was not directly involved in many decisions and that those who operated the autopen acted illegally. He announced the cancellation of all executive orders and actions not personally signed by Biden. However, presidents have used versions of the autopen for more than two centuries, and the Department of Justice concluded in 2005 that autopen signatures are legally valid.
Critics have accused Trump of exaggerating Biden’s use of the autopen to question his cognitive abilities, while Biden has insisted he was responsible for all decisions and pardons he issued. Legal experts note that the Constitution does not require presidents to physically sign documents themselves. Despite this, Trump repeated his claims earlier this year, and the House Oversight Committee—led by Republicans—recommended that the Justice Department investigate the matter. The White House responded by referring to Trump’s own public statements.
Separately, Trump announced plans to temporarily halt immigration from “third-world countries” after an incident involving two National Guard troops. He said he intends to pause migration, reverse Biden-era admissions, and deport individuals who he claims do not benefit the United States. He also vowed to end federal benefits for non-citizens and take action against migrants who undermine “domestic tranquility.”