Trump's AG won't rule out prosecuting Democrats who threaten to investigate

Attorney General Todd Blanche has not ruled out the possibility of prosecuting Democratic lawmakers who threaten to investigate Trump officials, despite President Trump's directive to the DOJ to probe lawmakers. This development has sparked concerns over a potential constitutional crisis, as the President is attempting to encroach upon the Congress's authority to hold the executive branch accountable.

Trump accused Democrats of threatening administration officials and Republican donors with investigations and impeachment, labeling them as "EXTORTIONISTS" and ordering the DOJ to investigate this alleged criminal act. Blanche acknowledged Congress's constitutional oversight authority but stated that Democrats' rhetoric had crossed a line.

He did not confirm an investigation or specify a criminal statute, but emphasized that it depended on the crimes Democrats had allegedly committed. Blanche warned incoming House Oversight Committee Chair Robert Garcia that members of Congress who commit crimes may face imprisonment, and the DOJ would provide legal defense for administration officials facing congressional scrutiny.

Garcia responded by accusing Blanche of trying to intimidate Congress and vowed that Democrats would not back down, asserting that his committee would pursue alleged wrongdoing involving Trump's administration, family, and corporate allies. The DOJ's response to Trump's order and the specific charges it may pursue remain unclear.