Democratic lawmakers Allege Trump of ‘Intimidation’ Campaign as FBI Seeks Meetings

A collection of Democrat lawmakers branded by the president as engaging in “subversive conduct” have claimed that the president is using the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to target them as a “instrument to intimidate and harass members of Congress.”

The four politicians, along with two additional members, had produced a recorded message urging US military service members to resist unlawful orders – a message that provoked Trump, who posted on social media that the individuals were “traitors” and thus could be jailed or even face the death penalty.

A statement, issued by US representatives the Colorado congressman, the Pennsylvania representatives, and the New Hampshire lawmaker, confirmed that the FBI had contacted the Congressional security officials requesting discussions with them.

“Regardless of any pressure or threats will ever stop us from doing our jobs and upholding the Constitution,” they stated, adding that they had each taken a vow “to uphold and protect” the Constitution of the United States.

“That commitment is permanent, and we intend to keep it. We will not be bullied. We will not surrender our principles,” they continued.

The statement deepens a dispute between the Trump administration and Democrats, including Arizona senator and ex-astronaut Senator Kelly and Michigan congresswoman Representative Slotkin, over the recorded appeal, which urged the military and intelligence services members to “refuse illegal orders.”

Slotkin said the counter-terrorism unit of the FBI had informed the lawmakers that “they are opening what appears to be an investigation against the six of us” and characterized the action as a “scare tactic” by Trump.

“Frankly, the president’s reaction and the use of the FBI against us is precisely the reason we made the video,” she said.

“He believes in using the US government against his perceived adversaries, and he’s not afraid to use the government agencies against people he disagrees with. He fails to accept the law applies to him … which is precisely the reason we produced the recording, to give people some assurance that they weren’t alone as they watch this stuff unfold.”

The Pentagon has additionally stated it is conducting a review of misconduct allegations against Kelly that could, it said, result in him being recalled to active duty to undergo a military trial.