Trump orders DOJ probe into Democrats over ‘threatening’ letters

US President Donald Trump has directed the Justice Department to investigate Democratic lawmakers, accusing them of threatening people with impeachment and other forms of punishment, in a move that could deepen political tensions following the Republicans’ defeat in the midterm elections.

Trump made the demand in a social media post on Saturday, describing the Democrats’ actions as a possible “criminal act”. However, he did not provide evidence to support his allegations.

The development comes after Democratic candidates secured major victories in Tuesday’s midterm elections, giving their party control of Congress from January. Democratic leaders have pledged to strengthen congressional oversight of the executive branch through hearings and investigations into the Trump administration’s decisions and policies.

In his post, Trump accused Democrats of sending threatening letters to people he described as innocent. Members of Congress have recently released copies of letters requesting documents and information on several matters, including technology companies’ donations towards a large ballroom being constructed at the White House.

Trump also singled out Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, whose recent remarks at the University of Chicago attracted criticism from Republicans.

Speaking at the university last month, Slotkin said Congress should investigate individuals who had enabled the president’s policies. She also suggested that people considering employment in the Trump administration should be aware that their actions could have consequences if they participated in unlawful conduct.

Her comments prompted Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah to accuse her of threatening young people interested in entering public service. Slotkin rejected his criticism, accusing him of misrepresenting her remarks.

The latest controversy follows an earlier Justice Department investigation involving Slotkin and other Democratic lawmakers with national security backgrounds. They were investigated after appearing in a video urging military personnel and intelligence officials to refuse illegal orders from the administration.

A grand jury rejected the attempt to indict the lawmakers.

Responding to Trump’s latest remarks on Saturday, Slotkin defended the need for accountability, saying that anyone who breaks the law or uses public money for personal enrichment should face consequences.

“If you didn’t break the law, then it’s all good,” she said in a social media post.

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Trump’s latest intervention comes as Democrats prepare to take control of Congress, setting the stage for potentially contentious investigations and renewed political clashes between the White House and its opponents.