Trump calls for Raskin’s expulsion, suggests ‘he’d be in jail right now’ if not for Biden pardon
President Trump called for Rep. Jamie Raskin’s (D-Md.) expulsion from Congress on Thursday afternoon and claimed the lawmaker would “be in jail” if not for a pardon from former President Biden. Trump…
President Trump called for Rep. Jamie Raskin’s (D-Md.) expulsion from Congress on Thursday afternoon and claimed the lawmaker would “be in jail” if no
Read Full Story at The Hill →Why This Matters
Trump’s call for Raskin’s expulsion underscores the escalating polarization in American politics, where legislative accountability is increasingly weaponized for partisan advantage. It also signals a willingness to use criminal justice rhetoric against political opponents, blurring the line between legal accountability and retaliatory rhetoric.
Background Context
Raskin, a constitutional law professor and key figure in Trump’s second impeachment trial, has long been a target of conservative criticism for his role in investigating the January 6th insurrection. Trump’s pardon reference harks back to Biden’s controversial commutation of a nonviolent drug offender, suggesting an attempt to frame Raskin’s legal troubles—nonexistent—as a Biden administration favor.
What Happens Next
While expulsion is unlikely given Democratic control of the House, the episode could energize Republican fundraising and messaging ahead of the 2024 elections. Legal experts may weigh in on whether Trump’s rhetoric crosses defamation thresholds, adding another layer to his post-presidency legal battles.
Bigger Picture
This episode reflects a broader trend of political leaders invoking criminal justice language to delegitimize opponents, a tactic seen in authoritarian regimes and increasingly normalized in U.S. discourse. It also highlights how pardons and clemency—once rare bipartisan tools—are now framed as partisan bargaining chips.
