Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent gave an address this evening at the Republican Midterm Convention that lauded President Trump's second term while diminishing the previous Biden-Harris Administration.

"In 15 short months," Bessent said, "we've gone from autopen to overdrive!"

Bessent remarks are in line with other similar messaging surrounding the RNC that celebrates America moving away from what they call lackluster executive leadership under former Biden to advancing an aggressive economic agenda under Trump.

The autopen controversy that Bessent alludes to centers on allegations that former President Joe Biden's aides relied heavily on the mechanical signature device for official documents amid allegations about Biden's rapidly declining cognitive state.

Trump has directed reviews of numerous actions signed during the prior term, including pardons and executive orders. Legal experts have noted historical precedents for autopen use, though Republicans argue it raises constitutional concerns when authorization is disputed.

Bessent framed the shift as evidence of the current administration's focus on results. He pointed to policies on trade, taxes, and deregulation as key drivers for growth in his speech. Recent data shows U.S. GDP growth at 1.5 percent annualized in the second quarter of 2026, with unemployment holding at 4.1 percent.

The Treasury Secretary emphasized stability in the economy despite external pressures, including energy market impacts from ongoing international conflicts. He described the U.S. approach as superior to alternatives pursued by Europe or China.

Bessent also addressed fiscal matters, noting plans to manage deficits through congressional action ahead of midterm elections. The administration continues to promote reductions in regulatory burdens as a core achievement as Republicans eye competitive general elections races approaching in November.