Story perspectives

Democratic Lawmakers Targeted by Bomb Threats After Trump Accusations

11/22/2025

Center

Lawmakers Face Threats

Five Democratic lawmakers received bomb threats after U.S. President Donald Trump accused them of seditious behavior for urging military members to refuse illegal orders.
The threats targeted Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representatives Jason Crow, Chrissy Houlahan, Chris Deluzio, and Maggie Goodlander.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump, claiming the lawmakers encouraged defiance against lawful orders.
The remarks drew bipartisan condemnation.
An investigation into the lawmakers' actions may be forthcoming.

Left

Trump Criticized by Veterans

U.S. President Donald Trump faced criticism from veterans for politicizing the military after he accused Democratic lawmakers of "sedition, punishable by death."
The comment followed a video urging service members to refuse unlawful orders.
Military legal experts say Trump misused terms like sedition and treason.
The firing of military legal advisors raises fears of politicization within the ranks, which underscores calls to reaffirm the oath.

History

Historical Context

The Sedition Act of 1918, an extension of the Espionage Act of 1917, criminalized speech against the U.S. government during World War I, leading to over 2,000 prosecutions, including that of socialist Eugene V. Debs. Repealed in 1920, its legacy raises concerns today as accusations of sedition against lawmakers echo historical abuses, threatening democratic norms and political discourse.

1 of 3

Lawmakers Face Threats

Five Democratic lawmakers received bomb threats after U.S. President Donald Trump accused them of seditious behavior for urging military members to refuse illegal orders.
The threats targeted Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representatives Jason Crow, Chrissy Houlahan, Chris Deluzio, and Maggie Goodlander.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump, claiming the lawmakers encouraged defiance against lawful orders.
The remarks drew bipartisan condemnation.
An investigation into the lawmakers' actions may be forthcoming.

1 / 3