During a recent segment on CNN's "The Arena," Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD) expressed strong criticism of President Donald Trump's reaction to a video featuring Democratic lawmakers.
The video in question advised military personnel to resist unlawful orders, a stance that Raskin argues is constitutionally protected. Raskin labeled the President's response as an "impeachable offense," highlighting the gravity of the situation.
According to Breitbart, host Kasie Hunt delved into the controversy by referencing the President's initial comments, which suggested severe consequences for the lawmakers involved, including execution or death. Although President Trump later appeared to soften his stance during a radio interview, he hinted that the Pentagon might investigate potential repercussions for the lawmakers.
Hunt sought Raskin's insight as a constitutional law scholar to clarify the legal implications, particularly concerning the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
Raskin dismissed the President's statements as "complete nonsense," emphasizing that the lawmakers' speech is safeguarded by the First Amendment and the speech and debate clause. He asserted, "All that they stated was that members of the military have an obligation to refuse unlawful orders. Thats been established."
Raskin further criticized the President's rhetoric, describing it as "vague threats of assassination and death," and expressed relief that the President appears to be retreating from such extreme positions.
The congressman underscored the importance of a unified denunciation of the President's comments from both military and civilian sectors. He argued that failure to retract these statements constitutes an impeachable offense, stating, "Its very important for everybody across the board, in the military and in the rest of civilian America, to denounce these comments."
When Hunt inquired whether the President's suggestion that the lawmakers' actions could warrant the death penalty was grounds for impeachment, Raskin affirmed, "I would say its an impeachable offense for the president to say that members of Congress can be punishable by death simply for stating that everybody is subject to the Constitution, and that people have an obligation to disobey orders."
This exchange highlights the ongoing tension between the executive branch and congressional members, with Raskin's comments reflecting a broader concern over the President's approach to dissent and constitutional obligations. The situation underscores the critical role of constitutional protections in safeguarding democratic discourse and the potential consequences of undermining these principles.
Login