Washington, DC — President Trump directed the Department of Justice to work with his White House counsel to investigate "the circumstances surrounding Biden's supposed execution of numerous executive actions during his final years in office," according to a statement from the White House. In response, Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters of the United States, issued the following statement:  

“In yet another dangerous and unprecedented move, President Trump has overstepped the power of his office. The president of the United States should never direct the attorney general or any government official to investigate political opponents. The Department of Justice must be free to act independently to enforce the nation's laws, and should not be used as a weapon by the president.   

“Villainizing political opponents is a fear tactic and an attempt to distract from the dangerous bill in Congress that would strip millions of their lifesaving health care while protecting billionaires and special interests. This move is another sign of the constitutional crisis intentionally set in motion by this administration.   

“Cabinet secretaries must do their jobs and follow the law, regardless of political pressure from the president. The League of Women Voters calls on Attorney General Bondi to drop this investigation.  

“A functioning democracy depends on a system of checks and balances, where leaders are held accountable for their actions — especially when those actions undermine the will of the people and the well-established rule of law.” 

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The League of Women Voters (LWV) is a nonpartisan, grassroots nonprofit dedicated to empowering everyone to fully participate in our democracy. Join the League in our movement to engage and mobilize 8.5 million voters to protect and preserve our democracy, Unite and Rise 8.5. Learn more about how you can hold truth to power and be part of this important fight for our future.