President Donald Trump on Saturday directed the Justice Department to investigate Democratic lawmakers, alleging they are engaged in efforts to intimidate Republican members of Congress.
The White House did not immediately provide specific examples of the alleged intimidation, name the targeted Democrats, or detail the actions that prompted the directive.
Attorney General Merrick Garland will determine whether to open an inquiry. Legal experts note the Justice Department typically operates independently from presidential directives on specific investigations and could face pressure to maintain impartiality while responding to a direct order from the chief executive.
Democrats have not yet issued a formal response. The move escalates tensions between the White House and congressional Democrats as the 119th Congress navigates frequent gridlock over legislative priorities and oversight matters.
