Democrats Accuse Trump of ‘Intimidation’ Tactic as FBI Seeks Meetings
A group of Democratic lawmakers labeled by the president as engaging in “seditious behavior” have asserted that the US leader is employing the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) against them as a “tool to intimidate and harass congressional representatives.”
The four politicians, along with two additional members, had produced a recorded message urging American troops to disobey illegal commands – a statement that provoked Trump, who posted on online platforms that the group were “disloyal citizens” and thus could be jailed or even be subject to capital punishment.
A statement, issued by congressional lawmakers Jason Crow, the Pennsylvania representatives, and Maggie Goodlander, confirmed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation had reached out to the House and Senate sergeants at arms requesting discussions with them.
“No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our constitution,” they stated, adding that they had each taken a vow “to uphold and protect” the US constitution.
“That oath lasts a lifetime, and we plan to honor it. We will not be bullied. We will never give up the ship,” they continued.
The declaration intensifies a dispute between the Trump administration and Democrats, such as Arizona senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly and the Michigan representative Elissa Slotkin, over the video message, which urged the armed forces and intelligence personnel to “disregard unlawful commands.”
The Michigan lawmaker said the FBI’s counter-terrorism division had informed the group that “they are opening what seems like an inquiry targeting the six individuals” and characterized the move as a “scare tactic” by Trump.
“To be honest, the leader’s response and the use of the FBI against us is exactly why we created the message,” she explained.
“He believes in using the US government to oppose those he views as opponents, and he’s willing to employ the government agencies to target dissenters. He does not believe the rules govern his actions … which is exactly why we produced the recording, to offer reassurance that they had support as they watch this stuff unfold.”
The US Department of Defense has additionally stated it is conducting a review of claims of improper behavior involving the senator that could, it indicated, result in him being recalled to active duty to face court-martial proceedings.
