Former President Donald Trump proposes sweeping changes to combat censorship and protect presidential power during a Wisconsin rally.
At a Glance
- Trump called for modifications to the 25th Amendment and an anti-censorship executive order
- The proposals aim to protect free speech and prevent misuse of presidential removal processes
- Trump made these announcements at a campaign rally in Mosinee, Wisconsin
- The former president criticized the Biden administration and promised to pardon January 6 rioters
Trump’s Rally in Wisconsin: A Platform for Constitutional Changes
In a strategic move that resonates with his base, former President Donald Trump chose the battleground state of Wisconsin to unveil his plans for significant constitutional and executive changes. During a campaign rally in Mosinee, a rural community of about 4,500 residents, Trump outlined his vision for modifying the 25th Amendment and introducing an anti-censorship executive order.
The choice of Mosinee, located in Marathon County, was no coincidence. This solidly Republican area, which Trump won by 16 percentage points in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, provided a receptive audience for his bold proposals. Wisconsin’s status as one of seven crucial battleground states that could determine the outcome of the upcoming presidential election underscores the importance of this rally.
Former President Donald Trump called for modifying the 25th Amendment to the Constitution & said if a vice president “lies or engages in a conspiracy to cover up the incapacity of the president,” they should be removed from office. https://t.co/C94OigxSMI
— News 3 Now / Channel 3000 (@WISCTV_News3) September 8, 2024
Proposed Changes to the 25th Amendment
Trump’s call for modifying the 25th Amendment is rooted in his concerns about potential misuse for political motives. The current amendment establishes the presidential line of succession and mechanisms for temporarily removing presidential powers. Trump’s proposed changes aim to create a safeguard against what he perceives as potential abuse of this process.
“I will support modifying the 25th Amendment to make clear that if a vice president lies or engages in a conspiracy to cover up the incapacity of the president of the United States — if you do that with a coverup of the president of the United States — it’s grounds for impeachment immediately and removal from office, ’cause that’s what they did,” Trump baselessly accused. Source
This proposal reflects Trump’s ongoing criticisms of the current administration and his concerns about protecting the balance of power within the federal government. However, it’s important to note that amending the Constitution is a complex process requiring a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Congress and ratification by three-fourths of state Legislatures.
Anti-Censorship Executive Order
In addition to constitutional changes, Trump promised to sign an executive order aimed at combating what he sees as censorship by social media and tech companies. This order would bar federal employees from engaging in domestic censorship and would result in the firing of those found to be involved in such activities.
“We will fire every federal bureaucrat who is engaged in domestic censorship” – under the current administration, he said. Source
This proposal aligns with Trump’s long-standing criticism of perceived bias in media and tech platforms. It’s worth noting that the federal government has faced scrutiny for pressuring social media companies to block controversial posts, including those about COVID-19 and vaccines.
Criticisms and Controversies
Trump’s rally was not without controversy. He reiterated his promise to pardon individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 Capitol riot, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from law enforcement officials. Former Capitol Police Sgt. Harry Dunn expressed his concerns about the potential pardons and their impact on officer safety.
“He put my life and the lives of my fellow Capitol Police officers in danger on January 6. He doesn’t care that it was because he encouraged a mob of violent insurrectionists to march on the Capitol that five officers died because of that day, and now he’s running to pardon those very same insurrectionists, pardoning the people who pled guilty, people who had their day in court,” former Capitol Police Sgt. Harry Dunn told reporters. “He doesn’t care about Capitol Police or any law enforcement.” Source
As the 2024 election cycle heats up, Trump’s proposals are likely to spark intense debate and scrutiny. While his supporters view these plans as necessary reforms, critics argue they could potentially upset the delicate balance of power within the government. The coming months will undoubtedly see further discussion and analysis of these proposed changes and their potential implications for American democracy.
Sources:
1.Trump calls for modifying 25th Amendment to make it possible to remove a vice president
2. Trump Proposes Anti-Censorship Order, Change to 25th Amendment at Wisconsin Rally