Promises to use DOJ to pursue 'enemies' if re-elected

In multiple interviews and statements, Trump explicitly promised to use the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute his political opponents if returned to power. He vowed to appoint a special prosecutor to 'go after' Biden and his family, and told supporters his priority would be 'retribution.' The open embrace of weaponizing federal law enforcement against political enemies marked a departure from even his first-term rhetoric, where such plans were pursued more quietly.

"I am your retribution." — Trump campaign rallies, repeated throughout 2023