Speaker Mike Johnson defended Donald Trump’s declaration that some congressional Democrats engaged in ‘sedition’ after the president suggested those Democrats should be executed Thursday. Johnson argued that the Democrats’ actions were ‘wildly inappropriate’ and should be held accountable under the law. However, in response to clarification from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt that Trump did not advocate for executions, Johnson softened his stance, stating that the president’s comments were ‘not the ones that I would use.’
The incident occurred after Trump shared a post from a Truth Social user expressing the sentiment that ‘HANG THEM GEORGE WASHINGTON WOULD!!’ The speaker joined Trump’s attacks on six House and Senate Democrats who posted a video addressing military members, calling their actions ‘so just beyond the pale.’ Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader John Thune criticized Trump’s suggestion of executions, stating, ‘I don’t agree with that,’ but also condemned the Democrats’ behavior as ‘ill-advised and provocative.’
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has publicly denounced Trump’s remarks, warning that the president’s comments risk inflaming political tensions. Schumer stated, ‘Every senator, every representative, every American regardless of party should condemn this immediately and without qualification,’ emphasizing the importance of drawing a clear line against such rhetoric. The incident highlights the deepening political polarization and the potential for escalations in public discourse, particularly within the legislative branch.