Revealed: Biden’s Note Cards Provide Insight into High-Profile Democratic Figures

Revealed: Newly discovered note cards from President Biden’s administration shed light on the interactions with notable Democrats, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. These materials, obtained by Fox News Digital, contain names and photographic reminders intended for Biden’s reference during public engagements.

Five distinct “palm cards,” hand-sized notes frequently employed by politicians for reminders or talking points during events, surfaced in the wake of an investigation into the Biden administration’s use of an autopen. The cards were part of a review of National Archive documents.

Out of the five cards that Fox News Digital acquired, four are marked with a disclaimer stating, “PRESIDENT HAS SEEN.” The fifth card, which features a question posed by an ABC News reporter during a press conference, lacks that specific indication.

It remains unclear whether Biden utilized all the cards during his various public appearances. Fox News Digital reached out to his office for clarification concerning the cards’ usage but received no immediate response.

Insights on Notable Democrats

Among those who received prestigious accolades was Hillary Clinton, who was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, shortly before the end of Biden’s term. One of the palm cards issued by Fox News Digital lists “Presidential Medal of Freedom Recipients” and includes photographs and brief biographies of several honorees, among them Clinton. It notes her role as Secretary of State during the Obama-Biden administration.

This particular palm card also features Denzel Washington, a recipient of the same award. It describes him as an actor, director, and producer, and cites accolades from the New York Times, branding him one of the greatest actors of the 21st century. Additionally, the card highlights lesser-known awardees like renowned chef José Andrés and businessman David Rubenstein.

A Close View of Political Milestones

Another palm card captioned “Judicial Confirmations Milestone Speech” included images of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Whip Dick Durbin. This card detailed their Senate positions, party affiliations, and states represented, also carrying the stamp “PRESIDENT HAS SEEN.” Biden commemorated the confirmation of 235 judicial nominees in a January speech held in the State Dining Room with both Schumer and Durbin at his side. They had participated in several public events celebrating the administration’s achievements in judicial confirmations earlier in Biden’s presidency.

Events Surrounding Notable Figures

Additional palm cards highlight various political figures and events. One card featured details on renowned filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola’s family members ahead of the 47th Kennedy Center Honors, which celebrated the iconic director of “The Godfather.” Another card, dated January 18, 2024, showed bios of White House Historical Association President Stewart McLaurin and included a mention of Democratic Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and his family.

It remains uncertain whether Pritzker visited the White House on that Saturday, January 18th.

Engagement with the Press

The fifth card contained an inquiry from ABC News reporter Mary Bruce, designated “Question #3.” It read: “2024: How do YOU view the path forward? How do YOU think about YOUR place in history?” A subsequent question addressed Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s debt limit proposal, showcasing the administration’s proactive engagement with pressing political issues.

A review of press events reveals that Bruce was the third correspondent to pose a question to Biden during a joint press conference with the South Korean president on April 26, 2023. Bruce directly engaged with Biden on re-election concerns and public perception, challenging the president on his age and political viability.

Documenting the Use of Palm Cards

Historically, politicians have utilized palm cards, especially during campaigns. Biden’s ongoing usage while in office has ignited debates regarding his mental acuity. Reports surfaced in 2024 highlighting donor concerns stemming from his reliance on these notes during public appearances. In one instance, Biden was spotted using cards containing the names and photographs of reporters to facilitate smoother interactions during a joint press conference.

During his inaugural press conference in March 2021, Biden was also seen using a card laden with statistics and relevant talking points. Such displays have raised questions about his preparedness compared to predecessors.

Reactions from Biden’s Office

In response to inquiries about his method of engaging with the press, the White House suggested that former President Donald Trump conducted press interactions with less formality. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers remarked that Trump often took questions without pre-screening, contrasting his approach with Biden’s practices. The administration clarified that they do not prepare reporter palm cards nor ask reporters to submit questions in advance.

A Broader Examination of the Autopen Use

The Biden administration continues to face scrutiny over its use of an autopen for signing official documents, which includes executive orders and clemency applications. Concerns regarding Biden’s mental health and acuity escalated during his 2024 campaign, especially following critiques of his performance in debate settings, ultimately leading to his withdrawal from the race.

Ever since reclaiming the presidency, Trump has persisted with criticisms of Biden’s autopen usage, suggesting it raises questions about the president’s capabilities. In June, he mandated an investigation into the Biden administration’s practices surrounding the autopen.

Report by Lindasy Kornick from Fox News Digital contributed significant insights to this piece.