Republicans criticize Trump privately but are silenced by fear of the MAGA online supporters, says Eric Swalwell.

Swalwell Claims Republicans Fear Trump Supporters’ Intimidation

California Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell has suggested that many Republicans express their criticisms of former President Trump in private, but refrain from doing so publicly due to fear of backlash from his supporters.

In comments made to TMZ, Swalwell responded to questions about an interaction he had with a Republican lawmaker in the Capitol gym. He revealed that some Republicans shared their concerns about the potential repercussions of speaking out against Trump.

“What they told me was that there’s a genuine fear that if they criticized Trump, his supporters would launch a campaign against them online, and it would drastically alter their lives,” Swalwell explained.

He went on to share that the gym serves as a space where lawmakers, regardless of party, often reveal their true feelings. “It can be quite surprising how open they are in that setting,” he noted. “When they converse, you see the distinctions. It frustrates me when they recognize the issues with Trump, but hold back because of fears like, ‘Don’t stand out too much.’ Even at home, that kind of caution resonates,” he added.

In Swalwell’s view, the underlying concern is to safeguard their families, addressing the intimidation and potential violence that might come from taking a stand against the former president. He mentioned that he often advises those feeling this pressure to reconsider their political careers.

“What bothers me most is that they portray one view in hearings while behind closed doors, in a more private space, they express a different sentiment. It seems to stem from a place of anxiety,” he stated, reiterating the notion that the fear of retaliation shapes their responses. “It’s really disheartening,” he concluded.

Swalwell has thrown his hat into the ring for the California gubernatorial race, though recent polls indicate he may not have a strong foothold amidst a crowded candidate pool. A December survey showed no candidate capturing more than 13% support, while a significant portion—over 44%—remained undecided.