Democrats Allege Trump of ‘Harassment’ Campaign as FBI Seeks Meetings

A group of Democratic politicians labeled by Donald Trump as engaging in “subversive conduct” have claimed that the president is employing the FBI to target them as a “tool to pressure and threaten congressional representatives.”

The group of four elected officials, together with two others, had produced a recorded message encouraging US military service members to resist illegal commands – a message that provoked Trump, who wrote on online platforms that the group were “traitors” and thus could be jailed or even face the death penalty.

A statement, released by congressional lawmakers Jason Crow, Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan, and the New Hampshire lawmaker, confirmed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation had reached out to the Congressional security officials requesting interviews with them.

“No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and upholding the Constitution,” they said, adding that they had each taken a vow “to support and defend” the Constitution of the United States.
“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 deepens a dispute between the Trump administration and Democrats, such as the senator from Arizona and ex-astronaut Senator Kelly and Michigan congresswoman Representative Slotkin, over the video message, which advised the military and intelligence services members to “disregard unlawful commands.”

The Michigan lawmaker said the counter-terrorism unit of the FBI had informed the lawmakers that “they are opening what appears to be an investigation against the six of us” and described the move as a “intimidation strategy” by Trump.

“Frankly, the leader’s response and the use of the FBI against us is precisely the reason we made the video,” she said.

“He supports utilizing the US government to oppose those he views as opponents, and he’s not afraid to use the government agencies against people he disagrees with. He does not believe the rules govern his actions … which is exactly why we produced the recording, to offer reassurance that they weren’t alone as they watch this stuff unfold.”

The Pentagon has also said it is performing an examination of claims of improper behavior against Kelly that might, it said, result in him being recalled to active duty to face court-martial proceedings.

Brett Davidson
Brett Davidson

A passionate writer and traveler sharing insights on personal growth and lifestyle from a UK perspective.