PHILADELPHIA — Ashley Biden, the daughter of former President Joe Biden, filed for divorce from her husband, plastic surgeon Dr. Howard Krein, after more than 13 years of marriage, according to court records and reporting from the Philadelphia Inquirer. The filing was made in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas on August 11, 2025.
The divorce filing became public after Ashley, 44, shared an Instagram Story showing herself walking through a park and giving a thumbs-up while Beyoncé’s “Freedom” played in the background. She also shared a message about “new life” and “new beginnings” and establishing new boundaries. The reason for the separation was not publicly disclosed.
Ashley and Krein married in June 2012 in Greenville, Delaware, after being introduced by her late brother, Beau Biden. Ashley later spoke publicly about the wedding while introducing her father at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, recalling how Joe Biden helped prepare the reception and became emotional during the ceremony.
⚖️ New Scrutiny Over Biden’s Autopen Use
Separately, former President Biden continues to face political scrutiny over the use of an autopen during the final period of his presidency.
House Oversight Chairman James Comer has argued that the committee’s investigation could raise questions about certain executive actions and pardons if investigators determine that Biden did not personally authorize them. The committee released a report in October 2025 alleging that aides exercised presidential authority and facilitated actions using an autopen without clear authorization. Those conclusions represent the committee’s findings and allegations, not a judicial determination.
The issue has also prompted requests for additional records concerning Biden’s use of the autopen. The Justice Department’s Office of the Pardon Attorney maintains official records of Biden’s pardons and commutations issued during his presidency.
🔎 Legal Questions Remain
Whether any presidential action could ultimately be challenged because an autopen was used would depend on the specific document, authorization involved and applicable law. The Oversight Committee has called for further review, while the Justice Department continues to maintain records of Biden-era clemency actions.
For Ashley Biden, the divorce represents a separate and private family matter. For her father, however, questions surrounding the final months of his presidency remain part of an ongoing political and legal debate.
