US President Donald Trump has taken the first steps after the Republicans' defeat in the midterm elections, ordering the Justice Department to investigate Democrats, while also making the first significant change in the White House staff.
In a social media post, Trump accused Democrats of threatening his administration officials, Republican donors and party supporters with impeachment proceedings and other punitive measures. He described these actions as “extortion at the highest level” and demanded that the Justice Department immediately launch an investigation, without presenting public evidence for his accusations.
Meanwhile, Trump announced the appointment of Stephen Miller as the new White House chief of staff, replacing Susie Wiles, who is leaving the position after the Republicans' defeat in the election. Miller, one of the president's closest aides, is expected to officially take office on November 9.
His appointment has sparked strong reactions among Democrats. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said that Trump has not learned from the election defeat, calling Miller the architect of some of the administration's harshest policies. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries also reacted sharply to the decision.
Stephen Miller is one of the key figures in Trump's policies, particularly in the areas of immigration, mass deportations, and the expansion of the president's executive powers.
The change in chief of staff is seen as a signal that Trump has no intention of softening his stance after his election loss. On the contrary, Miller's promotion is expected to strengthen the more hardline wing of the MAGA movement and influence the upcoming clash with the Democratic-controlled Congress.
Susie Wiles, the first woman to serve as White House chief of staff, will move into Trump's political ranks. Her departure comes at a time of heightened tension within the administration, while Miller's appointment signals a new, more confrontational phase in American politics.
