Federalist Radio Hour Accountability For The Autopen Presidency
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Oct 31, 2025 Mike Howell, president of the Oversight Project, delves into the controversial use of the autopen in Biden's White House. He reveals startling facts, such as 88% of executive documents being signed autopen, and discusses the legal implications of this practice. Howell raises concerns about the potential harm from released offenders and critiques the media's complicity in downplaying the scandal. He also emphasizes the need for accountability to safeguard democratic norms and considers how these revelations may impact future elections.
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Autopen Used At Unprecedented Scale
- The Oversight Project found 88% of executive orders, pardons, commutations, and proclamations were autopen-signed during Biden's term.
- Mike Howell argues that scale and default autopen use show it replaced presidential decision-making rather than aiding convenience.
Biden Admitted Not Approving Pardons
- Joe Biden told The New York Times he did not individually approve many pardons and sent broad categories for staff to fill names.
- Howell says that admission supports the conclusion that those pardons lack valid presidential approval.
Restore Sentences And Prosecute Wrongdoers
- The immediate step Howell urges is DOJ to rearrest individuals released under invalid pardons and restore sentences where appropriate.
- He also recommends charging pardon recipients who admitted guilt by accepting pardons for underlying crimes.