A former top aide to President Joe Biden testified Tuesday that she had authority to direct autopen signatures—but didn’t know exactly who in Biden’s inner circle was giving the green light.
Neera Tanden, who led Biden’s Domestic Policy Council, spoke behind closed doors with the House Oversight Committee for more than five hours. Lawmakers are probing Biden’s mental fitness and how the autopen was used to sign key documents like pardons and memos.
Tanden said that between 2021 and 2023, while serving as staff secretary and senior advisor, she was allowed to direct the use of the autopen on the president’s behalf. She claimed the system she followed was passed down from previous administrations.
But she admitted that she didn’t know who was ultimately approving the signatures. According to sources familiar with the testimony, Tanden would send decision memos to senior staff, but what happened after that was unclear.
She testified that she wasn’t told who signed off on the use of the autopen before it returned to her for final processing.
Lawmakers also asked if she ever discussed Biden’s health or capacity to serve, particularly after his criticized debate performance last summer. Tanden said she did not—and denied having such talks with any officials listed by the committee.
Tanden did not take questions from the press when she arrived at the Capitol. But afterward, she told reporters she answered every question fully and was glad to cooperate.
“I just spoke with the House Oversight Committee, Majority and Minority Counsel. I answered every question… and I’m glad I answered everyone’s questions,” she said.
Asked directly if there was any attempt to hide Biden’s condition, Tanden responded, “Absolutely not.”
Next up in the investigation: former White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor, who’s been subpoenaed, along with other top Biden insiders, including Anthony Bernal, Annie Tomasini, and Ashley Williams. The committee also wants to speak with Ron Klain and Anita Dunn, two of Biden’s closest advisers.