Mike Donilon Testifies on Biden’s Autopen Usage

Mike Donilon, an adviser to former President Joe Biden, stated during a recent appearance before Congressional investigators that he was unaware of the autopen and its function, according to a source familiar with his testimony.

This hearing, conducted by the House Oversight Committee on Thursday, was part of a broader inquiry led by Chairman James Comer into Biden’s mental capabilities and the administration’s use of the autopen. Donilon has been advising Biden since 1981, having served as a strategist, media consultant, and voter during Biden’s Senate tenure.

During the session, Donilon mentioned he was in line to earn about $8 million from Biden’s re-election campaign.

He downplayed worries regarding Biden’s debate performance, suggesting that the media and political critics were exaggerating the situation. Although he acknowledged that the former president occasionally struggled with his words, he expressed frustration over the public’s focus on Biden’s physical presence.

Donilon reiterated his lack of knowledge about the autopen and its application. Previously, he held a position as a counselor to Biden and was involved in strategizing for Biden’s campaigns in 2020 and 2024.

Former Democratic Representative Dean Phillips had previously labeled Donilon as one of the “masterminds” working to support Biden’s 2024 campaign, indicating that individuals like him might be driven by self-interest.

Another of Biden’s longtime advisers, Steve Richetti, also addressed the cognitive health discussions, attempting to minimize concerns during the committee’s hearings. Richetti and Donilon followed former staff member Ron Crane, who had faced questioning earlier.

In other developments, several individuals close to Biden, including former White House doctor Kevin O’Connor and others, have opted to invoke the Fifth Amendment during committee inquiries.