A top Democrat faces scrutiny for alleged threats made against Supreme Court justices during a pro-choice rally.
According to PJ Media, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is under federal investigation for comments he made in March 2020 targeting Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Neil Gorsuch.
The investigation stems from Schumer's speech at a #MyRightMyDecision rally outside the Supreme Court, where he made controversial remarks about the Trump-appointed justices regarding their potential votes in an upcoming abortion case. His comments have since been scrutinized for potentially violating federal laws protecting government officials.
Interim D.C. U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. has initiated significant changes in the Justice Department, removing approximately 30 federal prosecutors involved in Capitol riot cases.
This restructuring appears to be part of a broader effort to address concerns about partisan weaponization of the department.
Martin's investigation into Schumer's comments centers on potential violations of federal law, specifically 18 U.S. Code § 115, which prohibits threats against federal officials. The law carries penalties, including fines and up to ten years imprisonment for those found guilty of attempting to impede or intimidate federal officials in their duties.
During the 2020 rally, Schumer made the following statement that caught investigators' attention, as quoted by Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch:
I want to tell you, Gorsuch, I want to tell you, Kavanaugh: You have released the whirlwind, and you will pay the price. You won't know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions.
The Washington Post has reported that career prosecutors with experience serving under both Republican and Democratic administrations have expressed concerns about the investigation's timing. They argue that Martin's actions could potentially breach long-standing Justice Department policies designed to prevent political influence in criminal prosecutions.
Martin has formally communicated with Schumer regarding the investigation. The interim U.S. Attorney sent a letter to the Senate Minority Leader stating their position on such matters. His message was direct and professional: "We take threats against public officials very seriously. I look forward to your cooperation."
The investigation has garnered support from various conservative figures, including Tom Fitton, who has consistently advocated for Schumer's prosecution since the incident occurred. Fitton argues that similar comments from private citizens would have prompted immediate law enforcement response.
The probe of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer centers on statements made during a March 2020 abortion rights rally where he allegedly threatened Supreme Court Justices Kavanaugh and Gorsuch.
The investigation, led by Interim D.C. U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., examines whether these comments violated federal laws protecting government officials.
The case could potentially result in significant legal consequences for Schumer, including fines or imprisonment if found in violation of 18 U.S. Code § 115, which specifically addresses threats against federal officials.