Trump Urges Donors to Report Democrats’ Alleged Threats

President Donald Trump’s latest appeal went straight to Republican donors and party members: report alleged Democratic threats to the Justice Department or send them to the White House. He called the claims “totally illegal” and said those responsible should go to jail. The posts came after Democrats won both chambers of Congress, a defeat Trump has answered by calling for a criminal inquiry into their plans. He has provided no evidence of a crime. ^12,13

That inquiry began with Trump’s Saturday order directing the Justice Department to look into Democrats he accused of threatening officials. Those officials included Attorney General Todd Blanche and Republican donors, whom he accused Democrats of threatening with impeachment or other punishment. Trump called it “extortion at the highest level.” Democrats have said they will use their new majority to investigate the administration. They will seek records, including about tech company donations for a White House ballroom. Their elected lawmakers do not take office until January. ^1,5

Congress changes hands in January, but an investigation is not the same as a criminal charge or removal from office. The House can approve impeachment charges by a simple majority; conviction and removal require two-thirds of the Senate. The dispute also centers on Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin, whose comments about investigating people who backed Trump’s policies drew Republican criticism. She said accountability should apply when people break the law or misuse public money. A grand jury earlier rejected an attempt to charge Slotkin and other lawmakers over a video urging officials to refuse illegal orders. ^1,5,6

That failed attempt to charge lawmakers gives the new clash a recent example, but it does not settle whether any future investigation or impeachment effort will succeed. The Justice Department had not responded to requests for comment in the reports, and Trump named no Democrats he accused of threatening officials or donors. The next clear step comes in January: the new Congress takes office, and Democratic leaders can begin hearings and investigations. Any impeachment case would still need House approval and a Senate trial. ^5,8