In a new escalation of his political rhetoric as the presidential election approaches, former US President Donald Trump declared on Friday that he considers all documents signed by current President Joe Biden using a pen to be “null and void.” This announcement, published on his “Truth Social” platform, has sparked widespread debate about its legal authority and political motivations, in a move that analysts believe is aimed at undermining the legitimacy of the Biden administration and its ability to govern.
Details of Trump's announcement
Trump's post stated, "Every single document signed by Sleepy Joe Biden with a pen—approximately 92 percent—is null and void and has no legal effect." He added that he was "canceling all executive orders and anything else not directly signed by Corrupt Joe Biden," deeming the use of a pen "illegal." While this declaration lacks any legal basis, it reflects Trump's strategy of attacking his Democratic opponent by any means necessary.
The historical context of the use of the automatic pen in the White House
Contrary to what Trump's statement suggests, the use of an autopen is neither a new nor illegal practice in the US administration. An autopen is a mechanical device used to create a replica of someone's signature, and US presidents have used it for decades to sign routine documents, correspondence, and legislation that do not require immediate personal presence. Its use dates back to the administration of President Harry Truman and became common practice in successive administrations, including those of John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Barack Obama, and even Donald Trump himself during his presidency. Its purpose is to facilitate and ensure the continuity of government work, especially when the president is on a foreign trip or unable to sign immediately.
Importance and expected impact of the advertisement
Legally and constitutionally, a former president has no authority to revoke executive orders or laws issued by the current president. The principle of the peaceful transfer of power in the United States ensures that only the sitting president possesses executive authority. Therefore, Trump's declaration is considered a purely political statement with no legal weight. However, its significance lies in its political and media impact.
Domestically, this statement aims to reinforce Trump's narrative among his base that the Biden administration is weak and illegitimate. It also seeks to cast doubt on Biden's physical and mental capacity to perform his duties, a recurring line of attack in his campaign.
At the regional and international levels, such rhetoric could alarm both US allies and adversaries, as it portrays a deep internal division and instability in American politics. While foreign governments recognize that Trump's statements do not have the force of law, they nonetheless contribute to uncertainty about the future of US foreign policy should he win the upcoming election.
