Progressives fume at Hakeem Jeffries for saying Democrats won’t ‘get even’ with Trump

Hakeem Jeffries drew criticism from progressives after saying Democrats should prioritise lowering costs and getting things done rather than seeking to “get even” with Donald Trump’s administration. The disagreement highlights a choice facing Democrats as they prepare to take control of both chambers of Congress: how to balance their affordability promises with demands for investigations and accountability.

Historian Kevin Kruse and professor Ebony Elizabeth Thomas argued that accountability is necessary, while commentator Brian Tyler Cohen said delivering results and investigating abuses of power can go together. Jeffries said Democrats should follow the facts, apply the law and uphold the Constitution, and previously pointed to the Judiciary and Oversight committees as leading on accountability. The White House said Trump was willing to work with Democrats but criticised investigations it considers politically motivated.