Trump and Justice Department defy Democrats as probes loom

President Donald Trump and the Justice Department are taking a combative stance against Democrats following midterm election victories, signaling intense conflict as lawmakers prepare aggressive investigations into the executive branch next year. Trump called Democratic investigative requests "extortion at the highest level," while Attorney General Todd Blanche said criminal investigations of Democrats are possible. Democrats, led by incoming House Oversight Chair Robert Garcia, are preparing probes into what they call the "Trump crime family," with impeachment mentioned as an option. Some Democrats worry that focusing on investigations could undermine their mandate to lower living costs, with figures like Sen.-elect Adam Hamilton and Sen. Bernie Sanders urging caution. Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized Trump's chief of staff pick Stephen Miller and supports impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.