United States President Donald Trump has ordered the Department of Justice to investigate Democratic lawmakers, accusing them of "threatening a lot of people" following the Democratic Party's victory in Tuesday's midterm elections.
In a post on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump described the Democrats' actions as a "criminal act," offering no evidence to support the claim. He called Democratic lawmakers "extortionists" and said some of his cabinet members had been threatened with impeachment.
"The Democrats are going around threatening a lot of people," Trump wrote. "This is extortion at the highest level, and they should be held accountable for this."
Democrats won control of both chambers of the US Congress from Republicans in the midterm elections held on Tuesday. Democratic lawmakers and newly elected candidates have since said they intend to pursue investigations into the Trump family's financial dealings, the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Trump also alleged, without providing evidence, that some Democrats were threatening his donors, whom he described as "some of the most respected people anywhere in the World." He specifically named Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, claiming she was targeting people for their political views, though he offered no evidence to support the allegation.
When Democrats formally take control of Congress in January, they will have the authority to conduct a broad range of investigations. These powers include ordering access to documents, summoning administration officials to testify, and holding public hearings.
Democratic Representative Robert Garcia of California, widely expected to chair the House Oversight Committee, posted "LAWYER UP" on social media after it became clear Democrats would take control of the House. The committee holds broad investigative jurisdiction over the executive branch.
Democratic lawmakers have said their priorities upon taking office will include addressing the rising cost of living, investigating alleged corruption, and tightening oversight of immigration enforcement agents.
Trump's directive is consistent with a pattern established during his second term. He has previously called for investigations into political opponents, including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
