House Democrats are preparing a series of investigations targeting President Donald Trump, his Cabinet, and his family if they win a majority in the upcoming midterm elections, according to reporting from Fox News Digital.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., a lead impeachment manager in Trump’s second impeachment trial, told NBC’s “Meet the Press” that Democrats view impeachment as a critical tool for constitutional accountability. Raskin stated that Trump has “undoubtedly” committed impeachable offenses, including defying Congress on spending and conducting unauthorized military actions. He emphasized that impeachment is not a partisan “fetish” but a constitutional remedy.
Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., a member of the House Armed Services and Intelligence committees, told Fox News Digital that Democrats would prioritize probing corruption and nepotism within the Department of Defense, including allegations of funneling defense spending to companies linked to Trump’s family. Crow did not rule out using impeachment as one of several tools to pursue accountability.
Key developments:
- Democrats are laying groundwork for investigations into Trump’s administration, Cabinet, and family if they secure a House majority.
- Raskin asserts Trump’s actions warrant impeachment, citing defiance of Congress and unauthorized military engagements.
- Crow highlights defense spending concerns, including potential ties between Trump family members and defense contractors.
Impeachment as a tool
Raskin, who served as a lead impeachment manager in Trump’s second trial, argued that impeachment is a constitutional safeguard against presidential overreach. He cited Trump’s two impeachments—both of which resulted in acquittals—as evidence of his willingness to challenge norms. Raskin stated that Democrats would not hesitate to use impeachment if necessary, though he acknowledged it is not a “panacea.”
Investigation priorities
Crow outlined a multi-pronged approach, focusing on:
- Corruption and nepotism in the Department of Defense, including allegations of misused defense funds.
- Ties between Trump family members and defense contractors, which he described as “disturbing.”
- Potential impeachment or other accountability measures if evidence of wrongdoing emerges.
Political context
The midterm elections, set for November 8, 2022, will determine control of Congress for the remainder of Trump’s term. Historical trends suggest the party in the White House—Republicans in this case—often loses seats in midterms. Democrats have not ruled out reviving impeachment efforts if they regain the House, though they also plan to pursue broader policy issues like healthcare.
Trump’s response
Trump has previously warned supporters that Democrats could attempt to impeach him again if they regain control of the House. His legal team has consistently denied wrongdoing in both impeachment trials, arguing that the proceedings were politically motivated.
Historical precedent
Trump is the only U.S. president to be impeached twice, with both trials ending in acquittals. Democrats were unable to secure enough Republican votes for conviction in either case. Raskin noted that Trump’s actions—such as bulldozing the East Wing of the White House—demonstrate a belief in unchecked executive power, which he argues justifies impeachment as a check on such behavior.