1. United States
2. Iowa
3. Letter

Unchecked executive power is one of the greatest threats to American democracy. President Trump’s recent actions demonstrate a dangerous disregard for constitutional limits. I urge immediate congressional action before these abuses set a precedent for future presidents—of either party. Since returning to office, President Trump has engaged in abuses of executive authority, undermining democratic institutions, and violating national security norms. His actions meet the legal standard of a “clear and present danger” as established in Schenck v. United States (1919), which applies when conduct threatens public safety and governance. Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969) further clarified that speech inciting imminent unlawful conduct is not protected. Key Areas of Concern: 1. Pardoning Convicted Insurrectionists – On January 21, 2025, Trump pardoned convicted January 6 rioters, including those guilty of seditious conspiracy (18 U.S.C. § 2384). This legitimizes political violence and weakens the rule of law (United States v. Rebmann, 2023). 2. Undermining Independent Agencies – Trump removed two FTC commissioners without cause on March 18, 2025, violating Humphrey’s Executor v. United States (1935), which protects regulatory independence. 3. Misusing Military Power – Trump ordered the USS Gravely to the Texas-Mexico border without congressional authorization, violating 18 U.S.C. § 1385 (Posse Comitatus Act) and setting a dangerous precedent (Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. v. Sawyer, 1952). 4. Threatening Military Action Against a U.S. Ally – Trump renewed calls for acquiring Greenland using military force, violating international treaties such as the 1951 U.S.-Denmark Defense Agreement (Missouri v. Holland, 1920). Congress Must Act: Failure to act will weaken congressional authority and allow future presidents to operate without oversight. This is not about partisanship—it is about preserving constitutional checks and balances. During Watergate, Republicans and Democrats stood together to hold Nixon accountable because they valued democracy over short-term politics. This moment demands similar courage. I urge you to: 1. Support a congressional investigation into these abuses of power. 2. Publicly reaffirm that no president is above the law. 3. Defend congressional authority to prevent unchecked executive power. Americans—across party lines—are watching who stands for the Constitution and who enables unchecked power. Congress must not allow these abuses to go unchallenged. I look forward to your response.