Dems may subpoena Trump allies if they win 2026 majority

Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) recently announced that if Democrats win the House majority in the 2026 midterm elections, they plan to target private citizens who have struck deals with the Trump administration. This statement highlights the ongoing political rivalry between the two parties, especially as Democrats allege that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is being weaponized against Trump’s political opponents, a sentiment underscored by former FBI Director James Comey’s recent indictment.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to these concerns, asserting that holding accountable those who have allegedly manipulated the DOJ is not a form of weaponization. She highlighted the ongoing scrutiny Trump and his allies have faced as part of this political battle, describing it as a refusal to “tolerate gaslighting” from the Democrats. Her remarks reflect the administration’s stance on ensuring accountability while countering accusations of political bias.

Swalwell was confident about the Democratic Party’s prospects for gaining a majority, despite acknowledging historically low approval ratings. He articulated a strong intention to implement oversight and accountability measures if they regain control, including the potential to subpoena the DOJ and private entities that have engaged with the Trump administration. He specifically mentioned targeting college campuses, entertainment companies, and law firms as part of this agenda.

The congressman indicated that the intended message of these threats is to deter citizens from collaborating with the Trump administration. He expressed a belief that the prospect of accountability would discourage such interactions, although the specifics of the “deals” he referenced were not clarified. This indicates a broader strategy to shape the narrative around Trump’s supporters and allies in the wake of the upcoming elections.

Swalwell, who serves on key committees such as Homeland Security and Judiciary, has faced some controversy himself, having been removed from his position on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence due to alleged personal misconduct. This political backdrop adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing public discourse surrounding accountability, oversight, and the polarized relationships between parties in the current political climate.