Newly released emails between Biden White House aides have exposed a controversial situation surrounding the president’s final days in office. The documents suggest that Joe Biden did not personally review thousands of pardons granted to individuals convicted of crimes, raising questions about the process and oversight.

A top aide reportedly emailed colleagues stating that “Biden doesn’t review the warrants,” expressing confusion over the legality of clemency actions being finalized on the night of January 16. Another email revealed plans to create a template for each pardon, falsely implying Biden had verbally approved them. These documents were shared with media outlets and later used by Rep. James Comer, who leads the House Oversight Committee’s investigation into Biden’s mental capacity and the autopen pardons.

The emails detail internal debates over how to handle mass clemency grants. A key White House official requested evidence that Biden had consented before authorizing a mechanical signature on what became one of the largest acts of clemency in U.S. history. The exchanges occurred outside Biden’s known working hours, with aides previously stating he was most active between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Thousands of pardons and commutations were approved shortly after midnight on January 17, according to the emails. The House Oversight Committee highlighted concerns about ensuring Biden’s wishes were accurately implemented, though it remains unclear whether he was consulted before the decisions were finalized.