Raskin Claims Trump’s Actions Are Impeachable
On Friday, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) stated during an appearance on CNN’s “The Arena” that he believes President Donald Trump committed “an impeachable crime.” This assertion came after a Democratic congressman released a video encouraging military personnel to defy unlawful orders.
Host Casey Hunt brought up the topic of sedition, mentioning the congressman’s remarks. She noted that Trump seemed to backtrack on his earlier statement, suggesting that those committing sedition should face severe penalties, including death. In a radio interview earlier that day, Trump indicated a softer stance, saying the situation seems calmer now but that the Pentagon should investigate the matter. The Department of Defense is looking into potential consequences for the lawmakers involved. Hunt, in her role as a constitutional law scholar, sought Raskin’s insight on the issue.
Raskin responded by dismissing Trump’s claims as “complete nonsense.” He emphasized that the congressman’s speech was protected by the First Amendment and pointed out that the order discussed was indeed illegal, a fact even acknowledged by Trump’s supporters. Raskin commented on Trump’s quick retreat from his stark threats of violence, asserting, “It’s completely outrageous.” He expressed satisfaction that there was a widespread condemnation of Trump’s comments, highlighting the importance of military and civilian voices uniting against such statements. If Trump doesn’t retract his comments, Raskin argues, it would constitute an impeachable offense.
When Hunt asked if Trump’s mention of potential death penalty consequences for lawmakers could be an impeachable act, Raskin affirmed, “For a president to say that a member of Congress could be sentenced to death simply for urging adherence to the Constitution and for suggesting disobedience of illegal orders constitutes an impeachable crime.”
