Donald Trump announced on Monday that he was revoking presidential pardons issued by Joe Biden, arguing they were invalid because they had been signed using an autopen—a mechanical signature device. However, it remains unclear whether Trump has the authority to overturn a predecessor’s pardons, an act rarely attempted in US history.
Trump, who has repeatedly vowed to go after his political adversaries, declared on Truth Social that the pardons were “void, vacant, and of no further force or effect.” He provided no evidence for his claim that Biden had used an autopen or that it would nullify the clemency orders.
Autopens have been used by US presidents for years, including to sign legislation. However, Trump and his allies, including figures associated with the right-wing policy document Project 2025, have sought to use the issue to undermine Biden’s legitimacy.
Biden’s pardons, issued at the end of his presidency, included former Republican lawmaker Liz Cheney and other members of the congressional committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol riot and Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The clemency effectively shielded them from Trump’s threats of retribution.
Speaking to reporters, Trump acknowledged that his move could face legal challenges. When asked whether all documents Biden signed with an autopen should be nullified, he replied, “I think so. It’s not my decision—that’ll be up to a court.”
Experts told Axios that even if Trump’s legal challenge fails, the individuals he targets could still be dragged into legal battles.
Among those pardoned by Biden were former COVID-19 advisor Anthony Fauci, retired general Mark Milley, and Biden’s son Hunter, all of whom had been publicly criticised by Trump and his supporters.
Trump, who has repeatedly promised retribution against his opponents, issued pardons of his own upon taking office this January, granting clemency to around 1,500 individuals, including those convicted in the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.
