Democrats offer differing takes on Wisconsin judge versus Trump impeachment
Several Democrats who have long argued that “no one is above the law” in President Donald Trump’s cases are now condemning the arrest of Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan, warning that it could threaten the rule of law.
Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat from Minnesota, took to Twitter to express her concerns about Dugan’s arrest by the FBI on proceeding obstruction charges for allegedly shielding an indicted Mexican migrant from ICE agents. “This is not normal,” Klobuchar tweeted. “The administration’s arrest of a sitting judge in Wisconsin is a drastic move that threatens the rule of law.”
Klobuchar added, “It’s a grave step and undermines our system of checks and balances.” During Trump’s 2019 impeachment, Klobuchar emphasized that no one is above the law and that the American people deserve a fair trial. She stressed the importance of hearing evidence and witness testimony during a full and fair trial in the Senate.
Senator Tina Smith, also from Minnesota, condemned Dugan’s arrest, questioning the motives behind it. “If FBI Director Kash Patel and Donald Trump don’t like a judge, they think they can arrest them,” Smith said. She urged her Republican colleagues to stand up against what she described as a blatant power grab.
Representative Gwen Moore, who represents Dugan’s county, criticized the White House for what she called a willingness to weaponize federal law enforcement. Moore expressed alarm at what she perceives as lawless actions by the Trump administration and ICE, particularly in defying courts and disregarding the Constitution.
Representative Ro Khanna of California highlighted the contrast between the arrest of Judge Dugan and the Trump impeachment proceedings. He emphasized that no one, including the president, is above the law. Khanna expressed concern over the administration’s attacks on the courts and stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law.
Representative Mark Pocan of Wisconsin lamented the violation of norms on the immigration and legal fronts in relation to Dugan’s arrest. He likened the situation to actions seen in Third World countries and emphasized the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions.
In light of these developments, Democrats are calling for a thorough investigation into Judge Dugan’s arrest and are urging their Republican colleagues to take a stand for the rule of law. The arrest of a sitting judge has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the independence of the judiciary.
As the situation unfolds, lawmakers are closely monitoring the case and advocating for transparency and accountability in the legal process. The arrest of Judge Dugan serves as a stark reminder that no one, regardless of their position or influence, is immune from the law. It is imperative to uphold the principles of justice and equality under the law to ensure the integrity of our democratic institutions.
