Trump has called for a Justice Department investigation into Democratic lawmakers, accusing them of threatening individuals as Democrats prepare to strengthen congressional oversight.
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has directed the Justice Department to investigate Democratic lawmakers, accusing them of threatening individuals with impeachment and other forms of punishment, in a move that could intensify political tensions following the Republicans’ defeat in the midterm elections.
Trump made the demand in a social media post on Saturday, describing the Democrats’ alleged actions as a possible “criminal act”. However, he provided no evidence to support his accusations.
The development comes after Democratic candidates secured major victories in Tuesday’s midterm elections, allowing their party to take control of Congress from January. Democratic leaders have pledged to increase congressional oversight of the executive branch through hearings and investigations into decisions and policies of the Trump administration.
In his post, Trump accused Democratic lawmakers of sending threatening letters to individuals he described as innocent. Members of Congress have recently released copies of letters seeking documents and information on several issues, including donations by technology companies towards a large ballroom under construction at the White House.
Trump also specifically criticised Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan over remarks she made at the University of Chicago last month.
During her speech, Slotkin said Congress should investigate individuals who had enabled the president’s policies. She also warned that people considering employment in the Trump administration should understand that they could face consequences if they participated in unlawful activities.
Her comments drew criticism from Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah, who accused her of threatening young people interested in entering public service. Slotkin rejected the criticism, saying Lee had misrepresented her remarks.
The latest dispute follows an earlier Justice Department investigation involving Slotkin and other Democratic lawmakers with national security backgrounds. The investigation came after they appeared in a video urging military personnel and intelligence officials to refuse illegal orders from the administration.
However, a grand jury rejected the attempt to indict the lawmakers.
Responding to Trump’s latest remarks on Saturday, Slotkin defended the need for accountability, arguing that individuals who break the law or misuse public money for personal enrichment should face consequences.
“If you didn’t break the law, then it’s all good,” she said in a social media post.
The Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Trump’s demand comes as Democrats prepare to assume control of Congress, potentially opening the door to more extensive scrutiny of the administration through congressional hearings and investigations.
The political confrontation could further strain relations between the White House and Democratic lawmakers as the incoming congressional leadership prepares to exercise its oversight powers.
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