Leavitt says president does not want to execute Democratic lawmakerspublished at 19:13 GMT
Image source, Reuters
After a series of rapid question and answers, the White House briefing abruptly ended.
Several topics were covered, but one that kept surfacing was Trump’s posts on social media earlier today about “seditious” behaviour.
Leavitt was asked if the president wanted to “execute” members of Congress?
Leavitt swiftly replied: no.
It’s a topic that’s been discussed since Trump wrote on social media this morning, “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH” in reference to a video released by Democratic lawmakers.
Six Democratic lawmakers recently posted a video on X encouraging US military members to obey the Constitution and “refuse illegal orders”.
Responding to a reporter’s question, Leavitt said the focus should instead be on the “dangerous” words of the Democratic lawmakers, who she said encouraged active-duty service members to violate the chain of command.
“It perhaps is punishable by law,” she said.
We have reactions from Republicans and Democrats on Trump’s comments, which we will share with you next.
