Is this further proof of one set of laws for Trump and his supporters and another set of laws for the rest of us?
Since the beginning of the Biden administration in January 2021, former President Donald Trump has made numerous statements and social media posts that have been interpreted as threats of bodily harm or incitements to violence against individuals and groups holding opposing viewpoints. Below is a summary of notable instances:
Threats to Political Opponents:
Since 2022, Trump has issued over 100 threats to investigate, prosecute, imprison, or otherwise punish his perceived political adversaries. These threats have targeted individuals such as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Representative Adam Schiff, whom he labeled as "the enemy from within" and "more dangerous than China [and] Russia."
Violent Rhetoric Against Elected Officials:
In September 2023, Trump suggested that shoplifters should be shot and called for the execution of General Mark Milley, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, for treason. He also mocked the attack on Paul Pelosi, the husband of Nancy Pelosi.
Encouragement of Vigilantism:
In March 2024, Trump advocated for shooting shoplifters, a stance that was widely criticized as promoting extrajudicial violence.
Use of Violent Imagery in Campaign Materials:
In March 2024, Trump posted a video on his social media featuring an image of a hog-tied President Joe Biden, which was condemned as promoting violence against the sitting president.
Support for Conspiracy Theories Linked to Violence:
Throughout his campaign, Trump has reposted content associated with the QAnon conspiracy theory and played a song linked to QAnon at his rallies, actions viewed by experts as tacit endorsements of a movement connected to criminal acts, including the January 6 Capitol riot.
Suggestions of Using Military Force Against Domestic Opponents:
In October 2024, Trump suggested deploying the military or National Guard to address "radical left lunatics" on Election Day, referring to them as "the enemy from within." This proposal was met with condemnation from various political figures and organizations.
Targeting Legal Professionals and the Judiciary:
Trump has directed threats toward judges and lawyers involved in cases against him or his administration. In March 2025, he issued a directive targeting attorneys and law firms participating in lawsuits against his administration, accusing them of contributing to fraud and meritless claims. This move was criticized as an attempt to intimidate legal professionals and undermine the judicial system.
These instances reflect a pattern of rhetoric that many have interpreted as encouraging violence or threats against those with opposing viewpoints, raising concerns about the impact on democratic institutions and public safety.
Who oversees our rights? Pam Bondi's words and deeds suggest she is Trump's personal AG.
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