House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., is facing backlash after stating that Democrats will “fight” President Donald Trump’s agenda “in the streets.” His remarks came during a press conference where he criticized Republican policies, particularly tax cuts benefiting wealthy Americans.
Republicans quickly condemned Jeffries’ statement. The White House called his words a “disgraceful call to violence” and demanded an apology. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., echoed this sentiment, stating on social media that Jeffries’ rhetoric was “inflammatory and extreme.”
Senate Republican Conference Chairman Tom Cotton, R-Ark., also criticized Jeffries, calling his comments “deranged but not unexpected.” He accused Democrats of prioritizing “identity politics and unhinged attacks on President Trump” instead of focusing on national issues.
Despite the criticism, Jeffries and his Democratic colleagues dismissed calls for an apology. A spokesperson for Jeffries, Christie Stephenson, defended his statement, arguing that Republicans were misrepresenting his intent.
“The notion that Leader Jeffries supports violence is laughable. Republicans are the party that pardons violent felons who assault police officers. Democrats are the party of John Lewis and the right to petition the government peacefully,” Stephenson said.
Other Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Minority Whip Dick Durbin, D-Ill., have not publicly commented on the controversy. Meanwhile, some Democrats redirected criticism toward Trump, referencing his recent pardons of individuals convicted in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot.
Jeffries’ remarks were widely shared by Trump’s White House rapid response team on social media, amplifying Republican criticism. However, Democratic lawmakers have largely refrained from responding to the backlash online.
The controversy comes as Republicans and Democrats prepare for legislative battles over economic policy, tax reforms, and social programs. With tensions high in Washington, both parties are positioning themselves for a contentious year ahead.
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