Scalise Responds to Lieu’s Comments on Comey Indictment

During a segment on FBN’s “Mornings with Maria,” House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, a Republican from Louisiana, expressed his disapproval of Rep. Ted Lieu, a California Democrat, who had been tweeting “86 47” on his X account.

This phrase was in response to the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey.

Scalise labeled Lieu’s comments as “disgusting.” FBN host Cheryl Cason pointed out that Lieu’s post appeared to predict failure for the Department of Justice, implying that the case against Comey might fall apart and that he could seek damages due to selective prosecution. Cason also mentioned that these comments came shortly after President Trump experienced his third assassination attempt during the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. She noted Scalise was present that night and asked for his thoughts on Lieu’s remarks.

In response, Scalise remarked, “It’s abhorrent. As you mentioned, if you look at the third assassination attempt on President Trump, there is a growing trend in political violence from the left. It’s not happening equally across both sides; everyone understands that.” He indicated that such rhetoric could incite extreme actions from those on the far left, referring to an individual who attempted to attack during the dinner. “It was chaotic that night,” he recalled, “but fortunately, the Secret Service intervened.”

He continued, emphasizing the dangers of inciting language: “If they hadn’t stopped him, his goal was to harm many because he’s influenced by this kind of inflammatory rhetoric. They really need to reconsider their words, as they can lead to horrific outcomes. I mean, isn’t there a sense of humanity? Elections should be won at the polls, not through violence. That’s just unacceptable.”