Former President Donald Trump has escalated tensions in Washington, accusing six Democratic lawmakers of “seditious behavior, punishable by death.” The remarks came after the group of Democrats released a video urging U.S. service members to refuse illegal orders, sparking a heated political debate.
Trump’s Strong Accusations
On November 20, Trump posted a series of statements on social media calling the lawmakers “traitors” and “domestic terrorist Democrats.” He wrote:
- “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL.”
- “Each one of these traitors to our Country should be ARRESTED AND PUT ON TRIAL.”
- “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!”
The posts referenced a video in which six Democratic officials — including Reps. Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, and Sens. Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly — advised service members not to carry out illegal orders.
Lawmakers’ Message
In the video, Democrats emphasized the legal and constitutional obligations of military personnel:
- Chris Deluzio: “You must refuse illegal orders.”
- Elissa Slotkin: “No one has to carry out orders that violate the law.”
- Chrissy Houlahan: “…Or our constitution.”
While the video did not specify which orders were illegal, Democrats have pointed to controversial National Guard deployments and certain military strikes as examples.
White House Response
When asked whether Trump’s comments implied execution of members of Congress, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt denied this interpretation but warned that the lawmakers’ message could disrupt the chain of command. She called the video “a very dangerous message, and it perhaps is punishable by law.”
Democratic Reaction
Democratic leaders criticized Trump’s posts as alarming and threatening:
- Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer: “The president of the United States is calling for the execution of elected officials. This is an outright threat.”
- Sen. Chris Coons: Trump’s statements are “chilling behavior” and an attempt to intimidate lawmakers and service members.
Trump’s Pattern of Targeting Enemies
Trump has repeatedly used social media to call for legal action against his political opponents. Recent examples include:
- Celebrating the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey on perjury charges.
- Supporting the indictment of NY Attorney General Letitia James for alleged financial fraud.
- Criticizing judges and former officials such as John Bolton, calling them “bad guys” or accusing them of “sedition and treason.”
Key Takeaways
- Trump accused six Democratic lawmakers of seditious behavior, calling it “punishable by death.”
- Lawmakers urged service members to refuse illegal orders, citing constitutional obligations.
- Democrats called Trump’s statements threats, while the White House highlighted potential national security risks.
- This continues a pattern of Trump targeting perceived political enemies through social media.
FAQs
Q1: Which lawmakers did Trump accuse?
A: Sens. Elissa Slotkin, Mark Kelly, and Reps. Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, Maggie Goodlander, and Jason Crow.
Q2: What did the lawmakers’ video say?
A: It advised service members to refuse illegal orders that violate the law or Constitution.
Q3: Did the White House confirm Trump wants lawmakers executed?
A: No, the White House said Trump’s posts should not be taken literally regarding execution.
Q4: Has Trump targeted others with similar statements?
A: Yes, including James Comey, Letitia James, Adam Schiff, John Bolton, and certain judges.
Q5: Why is this controversy significant?
A: It raises concerns about political rhetoric, threats to lawmakers, and the chain of command in the U.S. military.
Conclusion
Trump’s comments have reignited debates over political discourse, the limits of social media statements, and military obedience to the law. As tensions continue, both political leaders and the public are watching closely to see how these claims will impact national security and democratic norms.