President Trump floats death penalty for ‘seditious’ Democrats
The Democratic Party reacted swiftly, labeling Trump’s comments as “absolutely vile.”
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has ignited a political firestorm by suggesting that Democratic lawmakers who urged the military to refuse illegal orders could be executed, calling them “traitors” and accusing them of “seditious behavior.” The comments, made on Thursday via his social media platform Truth Social, came after six senators and representatives released a video urging service members to refuse unlawful orders.
Trump’s posts included phrases such as “Seditious behavior, punishable by DEATH!” and he even reposted a user comment suggesting the lawmakers should be hanged, referencing George Washington.
The targeted lawmakers, including Senator Mark Kelly, a former Navy officer and NASA astronaut, and Senator Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA officer, highlighted the dangers of pitting military and intelligence personnel against American citizens. They did not specify which orders they were referring to but were critical of Trump’s use of the National Guard in multiple US cities.
The Democratic Party reacted swiftly, labeling Trump’s comments as “absolutely vile.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the president was “lighting a match in a country soaked with political gasoline.” The lawmakers affirmed they would not be intimidated, emphasizing their oath to defend the US Constitution “lasts a lifetime.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later attempted to clarify that Trump did not want members of Congress executed but continued to criticize the lawmakers’ actions.
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This is not the first time Trump has invoked extreme penalties against government officials; in 2023, he suggested the death penalty for former top military officer Mark Milley.
The remarks come at a politically sensitive time for Trump, as he faces increased scrutiny over scandals and recent Democratic victories in off-year elections, which have challenged his influence over the Republican Party.
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