Americans Retort They Don’t Have to Pay Back Loans If Trump Declares Use of Autopen ‘Void’
March 17, 2025 – A growing debate has erupted over the legitimacy of student loan repayments after former President Donald Trump suggested that President Joe Biden’s use of the autopen to sign key legislation might be “void.” Some Americans are now pushing back, arguing that if Trump’s claims hold, they should not have to repay loans that were forgiven through Biden’s executive actions.
The controversy began when Trump, in a recent statement, questioned the legality of Biden’s signing practices, particularly his use of the autopen—a device that allows a machine to sign documents on behalf of the president. Trump and some of his allies claim that this could invalidate executive orders and other policy decisions, including student loan forgiveness measures.
“If Biden’s signatures were illegal, then so were the student loan repayment orders. That means I don’t owe anything,” said Mark Reynolds, a 33-year-old borrower from Ohio, echoing a sentiment spreading rapidly online.
Legal experts, however, argue that such a challenge is unlikely to hold weight. The autopen has been used by multiple presidents, including George W. Bush and Barack Obama, and courts have previously upheld its legitimacy. Still, the claim has sparked heated discussion among borrowers, with some even refusing to make payments until further clarity is provided.
The Biden administration has yet to formally respond to the argument, but White House officials have previously defended the use of the autopen as a standard presidential practice. Meanwhile, financial institutions have warned borrowers against skipping payments, emphasizing that loan obligations remain in effect.
With legal challenges looming and political tensions running high, this debate is likely to intensify in the coming weeks. Whether this movement gains real traction or remains an internet-fueled protest remains to be seen.
