UPDATE: A Fox News host has rushed to defend President Donald Trump after his shocking comments suggesting the execution of political opponents. During a tirade on September 28, 2023, Trump criticized a video released by several Democratic lawmakers that reminded military personnel of their duty to uphold the Constitution. He labeled their actions as “seditious behavior” and claimed they deserve the death penalty.
In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump stated, “Each one of these traitors to our Country should be ARRESTED AND PUT ON TRIAL.” He emphasized that “an example MUST BE SET,” inciting outrage and concern over his inflammatory rhetoric. His comments come amid heightened political tensions and calls for unity in a divided nation.
On the September 28 episode of Special Report with Bret Baier, host Trey Gowdy attempted to justify Trump’s remarks. “I’m sure he meant after a trial by your peers,” Gowdy asserted, downplaying the severity of the situation. “Look, you can’t get put to death for making a stupid video, or I’d be dead.” His remarks have drawn criticism for seeming to legitimize Trump’s dangerous language.
The backlash intensified as Trump’s advisor Alex Bruesewitz echoed his sentiments on social media, claiming that Democratic lawmakers were inciting military personnel to defy lawful orders. Bruesewitz called for prosecution of these lawmakers to the “absolute fullest extent of the law,” framing their actions as a serious threat to national security.
However, legal experts are countering Trump’s claims. Erwin Chemerinsky, Dean of UC Berkeley Law, told USA Today that the video merely states the law: soldiers must not follow unconstitutional orders. “The accusation is unfounded and unnecessarily chills criticism of the President’s actions,” he stated, highlighting the potential dangers of Trump’s incendiary rhetoric.
In response to these developments, the lawmakers featured in the controversial video issued a united statement. They condemned the President’s remarks, declaring, “Every American must unite and condemn the President’s calls for our murder and political violence.” They emphasized the importance of moral clarity in these divisive times, urging for courage against fear.
As this urgent situation unfolds, the implications are significant. Trump’s comments have raised alarms about political violence and the safety of public discourse in America. With the 2024 election approaching, tensions are likely to escalate further.
WHAT’S NEXT: Public reaction continues to grow, with many calling for accountability from both Trump and his supporters. Watch for potential legal challenges and increased scrutiny on political rhetoric as this story develops. This is a critical moment for American democracy, and the need for civil discourse has never been more pressing.