Democrats Allege Trump of ‘Harassment’ Campaign as FBI Seeks Interviews
A group of Democratic politicians labeled by the president as engaging in “seditious behavior” have asserted that the president is using the FBI against them as a “tool to pressure and threaten congressional representatives.”
The four politicians, along with two others, had produced a video encouraging American troops to disobey illegal commands – a statement that provoked Trump, who wrote on online platforms that the individuals were “disloyal citizens” and thus might face imprisonment or even be subject to capital punishment.
A statement, released by US representatives Jason Crow, the Pennsylvania representatives, and Maggie Goodlander, confirmed that the FBI had reached out to the Congressional security officials seeking discussions with them.
“Regardless of any pressure or threats will ever prevent us from fulfilling our duties and upholding the Constitution,” they stated, noting that they had each taken a vow “to uphold and protect” the Constitution of the United States.
“That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. We refuse to be intimidated. We will never give up the ship,” they continued.
The declaration deepens a conflict between the Trump administration and Democratic leaders, such as Arizona senator and ex-astronaut Senator Kelly and the Michigan representative Elissa Slotkin, over the recorded appeal, which advised the military and intelligence services members to “disregard unlawful commands.”
Slotkin said the counter-terrorism unit of the FBI had notified the group that “they are opening what seems like an inquiry targeting the six individuals” and described the move as a “scare tactic” by Trump.
“To be honest, the president’s reaction and the deployment of the FBI to target us is exactly why we made the video,” she said.
“He believes in using the US government to oppose those he views as opponents, and he’s willing to employ the arms of the government against people he disagrees with. He does not believe the rules govern his actions … which is precisely the reason we produced the recording, to offer reassurance that they weren’t alone as they watch this stuff unfold.”
The US Department of Defense has also said it is conducting a review of misconduct allegations involving the senator that might, it indicated, result in him being recalled to active duty to face court-martial proceedings.
