Hunter Biden sat on the board of a Ukrainian energy company, Burisma Holdings, when his father was president and earned about $11 million in his role over five years. While noting his qualifications, he conceded that he probably would not have been asked to join the board if he was not a Biden. When President Biden pardoned his son in the wake of a Justice Department investigation into this, I spoke out and shared my concern with him using the presidency to protect his family. Roughly $2 million per year pales in comparison to President Trump's sons earning $800 million in just six months, though. If you didn't like President Biden's decision to pardon Hunter, you should despise President Trump’s actions to disrespect and disregard our judicial processes. He pardoned 1,500 people who participated in a violent insurrection on January 6th. Many of whom had prior criminal records and one just recently made a death threat against Leader Jeffries.  

He’s repeatedly threatened and/or fired prosecutors who rule against him and ordered others to target his political opponents. His March speech in the Great Hall of the Justice Department was filled with personal attacks on lawyers and judges who have worked to hold him accountable. This disdain for prosecutors who oppose him is dangerous and must be met with a strong affirmation of the crucial role of our nation’s independent judicial system. The response from Speaker Johnson, though? 🦗🦗🦗 

Earlier this year, we learned that members of the Trump Administration had communicated sensitive military strategy and war plans on an unsecure communications app – with a reporter included in the group. In the last several weeks, they’ve killed Colombians, Venezuelans, and others in alleged “drug boats” without any evidence, due process, or Congressional involvement. These actions endanger American troops and undermine our credibility abroad.  

And now, President Trump is sending the National Guard into cities where no emergency exists in the name of “immigration enforcement.” This doesn't make us safer. It sets a chilling precedent and stands firmly against our values as a country. 

Yet, Speaker Johnson remains silent or even defends President Trump’s egregious conduct. It's time for Speaker Johnson to make it clear that President Trump is not authorized to launch any war or create his own rules for carrying out military operations, whether at home or abroad. 

Finally, if you know folks who would appreciate these updates like you do, please feel free to forward this email or encourage them to sign up to receive them here. 

Thanks, and take care.