Members of the Senate Judiciary Committee from the Republican side criticized Democrats for their absence at a hearing focused on concerns about President Joe Biden’s cognitive health and the alleged use of autopen for executive orders and pardons without his direct involvement.

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) accused Democrats of ignoring the issue, stating, “Not a single Democrat is here today because not a single one of them gives a damn about the fact that they lied to the American people for four years.” He further claimed, “They knew. Every one of them knew that Joe Biden was mentally not competent to do the job.”

The hearing, titled “Unfit to Serve: How the Biden Cover-Up Endangered America and Undermined the Constitution,” emphasized GOP concerns over the use of autopen technology by Biden’s administration—highlighting concerns over decisions made without his personal oversight.

Republicans also showcased clips of Democratic figures defending Biden’s mental acuity, with some asserting he remains sharp and capable, despite observable slips. Ex-White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was featured denying concerns, claiming, “He is sharp. He is on top of things.”

Similarly, House Speaker emerita Nancy Pelosi defended Biden, asserting, “He has knowledge. He has judgment. He has strategic thinking,” even though she had previously pushed for his removal from the 2024 ticket.

Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) described the autopen as a troubling symbol of an absentee presidency, cautioning that it represents an executive branch led by unseen aides outside the democratic process.

Only a few Democrats, including Sen. Peter Welch and Sen. Dick Durbin, attended the hearing. Durbin voiced frustration that oversight hearings had not been conducted on other critical issues, such as recent violent incidents and law enforcement responses, accusing Republicans of focusing on Biden’s health instead.

Earlier this month, former President Trump ordered investigations into the use of autopen and who effectively managed the country during Biden’s tenure, asserting concerns over the authenticity of some decisions.

Biden has strongly denied any claims that autopen signatures were made without his approval, asserting, “I made the decisions about the pardons, executive orders, legislation, and proclamations. Any suggestion that I didn’t is ridiculous and false.”

Meanwhile, Durbin criticized the lack of oversight on other pressing issues, highlighting a focus on Biden’s health over significant national concerns.