In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, President Donald Trump has initiated a sweeping federal investigation into former President Joe Biden’s cognitive health and the legitimacy of his executive actions. This unprecedented move questions whether Biden’s aides unconstitutionally exercised presidential powers during his tenure, potentially altering the landscape of American politics.
Trump vs. Biden: Stunning New Investigation
| Takeaway | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Biden issued over 1,200 presidential documents during his term | 1,200+ documents |
| Biden commuted sentences of 37 federal death-row inmates | 37 commutations |
| Biden appointed 235 federal judges | 235 appointments |
The Trump administration’s investigation into former President Biden’s cognitive health and the legitimacy of his executive actions marks a significant moment in American politics. As the probe unfolds, it raises critical questions about presidential accountability, the use of executive power, and the mechanisms in place to ensure transparency in governance.
The Investigation: Allegations and Scope
On June 4, 2025, President Trump signed a memorandum directing Attorney General Pam Bondi and White House Counsel David Warrington to investigate whether Biden’s aides concealed his cognitive decline and unlawfully used an autopen to sign official documents without his knowledge. The probe aims to determine if there was a deliberate effort to mislead the public about Biden’s health and to validate significant decisions carried out in his name.
The investigation scrutinizes the use of an autopen—a device that replicates a person’s signature—to sign documents such as pardons, executive orders, and judicial appointments. While the use of an autopen is legally permissible, the Trump administration contends that its use in this context may signify Biden’s detachment from presidential duties.
The Catalyst: “Original Sin” and Health Concerns
The investigation follows revelations from the book “Original Sin” by journalists Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson, which alleges that Biden’s aides concealed his cognitive decline and limited his public appearances to mask his condition. The book suggests that Biden’s impairment intensified after his son Beau’s death in 2015, raising questions about his capacity to execute presidential responsibilities.
Adding to the controversy, Biden was diagnosed with advanced-stage prostate cancer in May 2025, further fueling concerns about his health during his presidency.
Biden’s Response
In response to the investigation, Biden issued a statement asserting his full responsibility for decisions made during his presidency:
“Let me be clear: I made the decisions during my presidency. I made the decisions about the pardons, executive orders, legislation, and proclamations. Any suggestion that I didn’t is ridiculous and false.”
Biden’s team maintains that the use of an autopen is a well-established legal practice following a presidential decision.
Political Repercussions
The investigation has intensified partisan divisions, with House Republicans, led by Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, seeking testimony from Biden’s former aides and physician to assess his cognitive state during his presidency. Critics argue that the probe is a politically motivated attempt to undermine Biden’s legacy and distract from current policy debates.
Conversely, supporters of the investigation argue that it is necessary to ensure transparency and uphold constitutional governance. The outcome of this probe could have significant implications for the validity of Biden’s executive actions and the future of presidential accountability.
FAQs
What is an autopen, and is its use legal?
An autopen is a device that replicates a person’s signature. Its use by presidents to sign documents is legally permissible, provided the president has authorized its use. The controversy arises when there are allegations that the autopen was used without the president’s knowledge or consent.
Could the investigation invalidate Biden’s executive actions?
If the investigation finds that significant decisions were made without Biden’s awareness or consent, it could lead to legal challenges against those actions. However, the constitutional validity of such actions would ultimately be determined by the courts.
How common is the use of an autopen by U.S. presidents?
The autopen has been used by several presidents, including George W. Bush and Barack Obama, primarily for routine documents. Its use for significant decisions is less common and more controversial.
