President Donald Trump has intensified his clash with leading Democrats, claiming that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries from New York has incited a recent assassination attempt. Trump contended that Jeffries suggested he should be arrested for declaring a “war” on the Republican Party just days before the assassination scare at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in April.
In a social media post, Trump referred to Jeffries as “Hakeem ‘Low IQ’ Jeffries” and asserted that he should face charges for promoting violence. He accompanied his statement with an image of Jeffries holding a sign that read “Maximum War,” along with visuals of himself and a close aide, James Blair, as well as Cole Allen, the alleged assassin, storming a Secret Service checkpoint three days later.
“Should Hakeem Jeffries be charged with inciting violence?” Trump prompted his 12.6 million followers to consider.
A spokesperson for Jeffries responded, directing attention to a social media post where Jeffries labeled Trump’s remarks as “another insane rant.” He shifted focus to issues affecting everyday Americans, remarking, “Gasoline prices are rising, food prices are up, and families are struggling.” He added that the Democrats are working towards reclaiming the House while Trump seems to be losing control.
This online spat arose after Jeffries had previously defended his choice of the term “maximum war” amid backlash from Republicans in late April. He expressed indifference to their criticisms and reiterated his stance on using that language when talking about redistricting conflicts across the nation. Jeffries claimed it was initially used by an anonymous White House official to intimidate Democrats amidst Republican-favored gerrymandering.
“The phrase ‘maximum war, anytime, anywhere’ was first mentioned by the White House when this redistricting conflict began in the summer of 2025, and now it’s become quite the topic,” he stated at a press briefing, adding, “Why? Because the Democrats decided to end it. Get lost.”
While Jeffries has continuously opposed political violence, he remains unapologetic regarding his vigorous language. He mentioned during a recent interview that lawmakers are “setting the best example” in their rhetoric, regardless of differing viewpoints. “We all love America and we all want to ensure this country is at its best,” he concluded.
