(DailyChive.com) – Rep. Dan Goldman, a Democrat from New York, didn’t hold back during an appearance on MSNBC’s Morning Joe when asked about the possibility of Donald Trump using the Department of Justice (DOJ) to target political enemies if he returns to power. Goldman warned that such actions would resemble what happens in a “banana republic,” where the rule of law crumbles under the weight of political revenge.
Goldman explained that Trump’s past behavior shows a troubling pattern. “Donald Trump’s entire purpose with his selection for the FBI is to do just that: jail his political enemies,” he said. He emphasized that this isn’t just harmful to the individuals targeted but damages the foundation of the American justice system. “It undermines our entire rule of law,” Goldman added, pointing out that when prosecutions are viewed as political, the credibility of the system erodes. He also expressed concerns about Kash Patel, a Trump ally, being considered for high-level positions, saying such appointments could worsen the problem.
Jonathan Lemire, one of the show’s hosts, pressed Goldman on whether he feared being personally targeted by Trump. Goldman, who served as the lead counsel during Trump’s first impeachment trial, admitted it was a possibility. “I’ve been on enemy lists,” Goldman said. But instead of backing down, he welcomed the idea. “If he’s going to attack his enemy, please bring it on, Donald Trump,” he said confidently. This underscores broader concerns about the dangers of using political power to settle scores.
Goldman also made it clear that his priority was protecting others, particularly the federal employees who work behind the scenes to uphold the law. These public servants, he argued, are far more vulnerable to retaliation than someone in his position. “I can happily and ably stand up for myself,” he said, pointing out that his role in Congress gives him a platform and legal protections under the speech and debate clause.
The broader message from Goldman was clear: allowing political leaders to use law enforcement as a weapon against opponents is dangerous. It doesn’t just threaten individuals; it undermines democracy itself. As tensions rise over the potential politicization of justice, the stakes for maintaining an impartial system couldn’t be higher. Comparisons to historical misuse of power highlight the urgent need to preserve the integrity of American democracy.
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