Following significant midterm election victories that secured them control of Congress, Democrats are preparing to launch extensive investigations into former President Donald Trump, his family, and administration officials, with a focus on alleged self-enrichment and obstruction of justice.
Incoming leaders of House investigative committees have identified several key targets, including Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and former Department of Homeland Security official Corey Lewandowski. The New York Times reported that potential avenues of investigation include the Trump family's cryptocurrency venture, World Liberty Financial, the president's sales of a memecoin, his son Don Jr.'s ties to a Russian oligarch, and property deals involving the Trump Organization.
Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., who is set to lead the House Oversight Committee, advised those anticipating subpoenas to "lawyer up." He stated that the committee would target "crony corporations" and associates of Jeffrey Epstein.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., slated to chair the House Judiciary Committee, described the investigations as urgent, aiming to "confront all this corruption directly—to expose it and take all steps necessary to crush it."
Meanwhile, former President Trump expressed skepticism about potential impeachment proceedings, telling reporters that such actions would be "political theater" and damage the Democratic Party.
Democrats have also indicated plans to investigate former Attorney General Todd Blanche regarding a settlement fund with the IRS. Separately, the Department of Justice is reportedly looking into a former deputy of ex-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for alleged abuse of the contract process. Lewandowski has denied any wrongdoing.
While Democrats are eager to use their subpoena power, legal experts caution that congressional authority is not unlimited and investigations must have a legitimate purpose. Enforcing subpoenas also relies on the Department of Justice for prosecution, which has shown a precedent for not acting on politically charged matters.
Some Democrats, like Senate Majority Leader-in-waiting Chuck Schumer, have urged prioritizing cost-of-living issues alongside investigations. A White House spokesperson stated that if Democrats pursue "sham investigations," they would be working against the American people. A White House official, speaking anonymously, warned that Democrats should remember "we still control the federal government and all of its powers" if they "abuse their power and politicize the process of investigations."