Rep. Jeff Van Drew on Biden's Autopen Clemency Scandal

Autopen Clemency Scandal

• 🎯 Jeffrey Zint, Biden's chief of staff, reportedly gave the final approval for pardons using the autopen, stating, "I approve the use of the autopen for the execution of all of the following pardons."
• ⚠️ This raises questions about who was truly running the country, with former President Trump suggesting Biden was unaware of the specifics.
• 🏛️ Congressman Van Drew emphasizes the importance of not reliving the past and ensuring such actions are not repeated, calling the use of the autopen for major decisions unconstitutional and wrong.

Discrepancy in Reporting

• 🔍 The New York Times headline stated President Biden made all decisions himself, but the body of the report indicated he did not individually approve each name for categorical pardons.
• 🗣️ Instead, Biden reportedly signed off on the standards and criteria for determining which convicts would qualify for sentence reductions.
• 📰 Van Drew criticizes the headline for not matching the body of the piece, suggesting a misleading narrative.

Democrat Responses and Significance

• 💬 Some Democrat colleagues suggested a personal signature might be better practice, while others dismissed the issue as a distraction, stating Biden clearly made the decisions.
• 💡 Van Drew argues the story does matter because these were important decisions, not just form letters, and that the administration is playing fast and loose with serious matters.

Concerns Over Cognitive Ability

• 🧠 Van Drew expresses concern over Biden's cognitive ability, referencing instances where Biden appeared disoriented, suggesting the truth should be spoken to prevent future occurrences.
• ⚖️ He believes that if the administration won't ensure it doesn't happen again, Congress must, as it affects the foundation of democracy.

Republican Commitment to Investigation

• 🔎 Congressional Republicans are committed to staying on this issue until answers are obtained, viewing it as their responsibility.
• 🇺🇸 Investigations are expected to continue in both the House and the Senate.