Democrat Rep. Jamie Raskin issued a veiled threat to El Salvador’s president and other foreign leaders, suggesting they would face consequences for working with President Trump. His comments, made during a podcast interview, drew immediate backlash from Republicans and raised legal and diplomatic concerns.
Key Facts: Jamie Raskin warning sparks controversy
- Rep. Jamie Raskin told “Pod Save America” that Democrats won’t “look kindly” on foreign leaders who work with Trump.
- He made the comments in reference to El Salvador President Nayib Bukele’s refusal to return a deported illegal immigrant to the U.S.
- Raskin supported the idea of retaliating against foreign governments that cooperate with Trump.
- His comments were tied to the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an illegal immigrant deported despite a court order.
- Republicans including Richard Grenell and Nancy Mace sharply criticized Raskin’s remarks.
The Rest of the Story: Details Behind the Jamie Raskin Warning
Rep. Jamie Raskin’s warning came during an interview on the podcast “Pod Save America.”
He criticized El Salvador President Nayib Bukele for refusing to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the U.S., despite a court ruling.
Bukele had discussed the issue during a recent meeting with Trump at the White House, pledging not to comply with the request.
Raskin responded to a suggestion that Democrats retaliate against foreign governments who support “extraordinary rendition” actions.
He appeared to endorse punitive measures, such as cutting off aid or pursuing prosecution against officials from such countries.
His tone suggested Democrats would remember and act once back in power.
His remarks quickly spread on social media, where GOP lawmakers fired back.
Trump ally Richard Grenell accused Raskin of threatening political retribution.
. @RepRaskin says he will go after Trump officials when he returns to power.
They haven’t learned a single lesson. https://t.co/geEvMAtoW6
— Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) April 20, 2025
Rep. Nancy Mace added that Democrats won’t return to power soon if they continue down the same path.
They aren't coming into power any time soon if things continue as they are… that's the only silver lining in their chaos and lunacy.
— Nancy Mace (@NancyMace) April 21, 2025
Commentary: Raskin’s Reckless Threat Crosses the Line
Jamie Raskin’s comments are not just reckless—they’re dangerous.
For a sitting member of Congress to threaten foreign leaders with future punishment based on their cooperation with a current U.S. president crosses every constitutional and diplomatic line.
It’s not his job to dictate foreign policy, let alone threaten sovereign nations for interacting with the elected President of the United States.
Raskin cloaks his warning in flowery language about “democratic solidarity,” but the message is clear: work with Trump and face retaliation.
This is the type of political strong-arming the Logan Act was designed to prevent.
If anyone else had made these comments, the Justice Department would already be looking into possible violations.
His remarks also undermine U.S. foreign relations.
When a member of Congress tells foreign leaders not to engage with the sitting president, it sends mixed messages about American leadership.
It invites chaos and weakens the very institutions Raskin claims to defend.
Moreover, the focus on protecting an illegal immigrant who was deported following due process is misplaced.
Instead of defending the sovereignty of our legal system, Raskin appears more interested in scoring political points.
The proper response here isn’t a rebuttal on X or another political soundbite—it’s legal accountability.
If Raskin truly meant what he said, it’s time for the Justice Department to investigate whether his actions violate the Logan Act.
At the very least, the House Ethics Committee should take a closer look.
The Bottom Line: Why Raskin’s Foreign Policy Threats Can’t Be Ignored
Jamie Raskin’s veiled threat to foreign leaders over their dealings with Trump is a clear overreach.
It blurs the lines between policymaking and political vendettas.
While he may think he’s defending democracy, Raskin may be chipping away at its foundation.
No member of Congress should be allowed to intimidate foreign governments into ignoring the sitting president.
The consequences of such behavior—if left unchecked—could be far more damaging than any political disagreement at home.
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