House Speaker Mike Johnson is declaring numerous pardons from President Joe Biden as legally invalid pardons. He made this statement following a new congressional report. This report scrutinizes Biden’s utilization of an autopen machine. The device automatically replicates a person’s signature. Consequently, a major political and legal dispute has now erupted.
The House Oversight Committee released a lengthy report on Tuesday. This report details findings from a months-long investigation. Republicans primarily conducted this probe. They examined President Biden’s mental acuity and his inner circle. Furthermore, they questioned who actually authorized certain executive actions. The report specifically focuses on thousands of clemency orders.
Speaker Johnson responded forcefully to the report’s conclusions. He expressed deep concern about the pardons. Johnson stated the pardons were invalid on their face. He previously worked as a constitutional litigator. Therefore, he said he would love to take this case. He argued unelected officials should not make massive decisions.
Committee Chairman James Comer also raised serious doubts. He questioned whether Biden personally signed all orders. Comer specifically cited autopen use for clemency. He then urged the Justice Department to review these actions. He even suggested these autopen authorizations should be considered void.
The report alleges Biden’s aides hid his mental decline. Johnson echoed these claims during his press conference. He described the situation as sounding like a terrible novel. He also mentioned pardons for categories of violent criminals. Johnson insisted the president did not know the individuals.
The White House immediately pushed back against these allegations. A spokesperson for President Biden defended his record. The spokesperson stated Biden made every decision of his presidency. They also denied any conspiracy or cover-up whatsoever. They accused Republicans of focusing on political retribution instead.
This controversy over legally invalid pardons creates significant uncertainty. The concept of legally invalid pardons could prompt legal challenges. Recipients of Biden’s clemency may now face questions. Additionally, the constitutional limits of the pardon power are now under scrutiny. The debate ultimately centers on presidential capacity and awareness.
For now, the Biden administration stands by its actions. The President himself has publicly affirmed his control. He told a major newspaper he made every decision himself. Nevertheless, congressional Republicans are demanding further accountability. They insist the public deserves complete transparency on this matter.
