GOP Bill Aims to Ban Autopen Use for Presidential Pardons

Washington, D.C. Republican Representative Buddy Carter has introduced a bill that would require U.S. presidents to personally sign all presidential pardons. This legislation, shared first with Fox News Digital, aims to prevent the use of autopens machines that replicate a person's signature for signing these important documents.

The move follows former President Donald Trump's recent statement deeming President Joe Biden's use of an autopen for pardons as 'void.' Carter's bill seeks to clarify and reinforce the importance of presidential involvement in the pardon process. He argues that pardons are a significant act of executive clemency that should require the president's personal attention and signature.

'Presidential pardons are a serious matter and should not be treated as a routine administrative task,' Carter stated. 'Requiring a president to personally sign each pardon underscores the weight of the decision and ensures accountability.'

The bill is expected to face debate in Congress, with supporters arguing that it strengthens the integrity of the pardon system and opponents potentially raising concerns about the practicality of requiring personal signatures in all cases. The use of autopens has become more common in recent years for signing routine documents, but their use for pardons has sparked controversy.