Larson Statement on Trump Department of Justice’s Failed Indictment Attempt Against Democratic Lawmakers

Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep, John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after a grand jury declined to indict six Democratic lawmakersfor posting a video back in November reminding servicemembers they can refuse illegal orders. The six lawmakers - Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Reps. Jason Crow (CO-06), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) - have served our country in the military and Intelligence community.

"It says a lot that this administration considers Members of Congress speaking out against their lawlessness to be sedition. Thankfully, regular Americans stood together to reject these sham indictment attempts aimed at silencing President Trump's political opponents," said Larson. "I commend the members of the grand jury in Washington, D.C. We the people will continue to stand up to this administration's abuses of power - we will never be silenced by the 'narcissistic nihilist' in the White House, or any of his henchmen. Even if the President sees the Constitution as merely a suggestion, freedom of speech is a right endowed to every American by the First Amendment. My colleagues are heroes not just for their service to our nation, but for continuing to use their voices as public officials to stand up for our servicemembers and protect our Constitution from a wannabe king. They have sworn a lifelong oath to safeguard our democracy, and they are showing what it truly means to live that oath every day. The American people are getting wise to the Trump Administration's games, and they are sick and tired of them."

In November, Larson condemned Trump's threats against themafter the President suggested their actions were "punishable by death." Larson also spoke out against the baseless FBI inquiry brought forward to punish themfor exercising their right to free speech.