Some congressional Democrats are calling for President Donald Trump to be removed from office using the 25th Amendment, arguing he is unfit to serve following recent comments about Iran.
What Sparked the Push
The renewed calls came after Trump warned on social media that a “whole civilization will die” if Iran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Critics within the Democratic Party say the remarks raise serious concerns about judgment and stability.
Sen. Andy Kim said he believes Trump should be removed, suggesting either the 25th Amendment or impeachment as possible paths.
Limited Support in Congress
While more than 50 Democratic lawmakers have voiced support for some form of action, the push is not unified. Most of the momentum has come from House Democrats, while support in the Senate remains more limited.
Rep. Jamie Raskin is expected to hold a briefing for House Democrats on how the 25th Amendment process works.
Comparison to Past GOP Calls on Biden
The situation mirrors earlier Republican efforts to remove former President Joe Biden using the same constitutional mechanism. After a difficult debate performance and concerns raised in a report by former special counsel Robert Hur, some Republicans argued Biden was unfit for office.
Figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson publicly suggested the 25th Amendment could be considered at the time.
Democratic Response Then vs. Now
At the time, most Democrats rejected calls to remove Biden, though some urged him to step aside from the presidential race. Leaders like Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer reportedly encouraged him privately to reconsider his candidacy.
Now, Pelosi has publicly supported using the 25th Amendment against Trump, calling him unstable and dangerous. Schumer, however, has not endorsed removal.
Political Reality of Removal
Any attempt to remove a sitting president through the 25th Amendment or impeachment would require significant Republican support, which currently appears unlikely.
Trump Responds
Trump has also referenced the 25th Amendment himself, joking during a Cabinet meeting that revealing future plans could lead his own Cabinet to remove him. He also noted that such action was never taken against Biden.
Ongoing Debate
The situation highlights ongoing political divisions in Washington, with both parties at different times raising questions about presidential fitness but rarely agreeing on when such extraordinary measures should be used.
