At a White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre took aim at FOX News reporter Peter Doocy after he raised concerns about how calling Donald Trump a “threat to democracy” might incite violence against the former president. Jean-Pierre pushed back hard, accusing Doocy’s question of being “dangerous” due to the weight it carried in the public eye, as reported by Real Clear Politics.

Jean-Pierre doubled down on her administration’s stance, emphasizing that the term “threat” wasn’t used lightly, but rather grounded in the events of January 6th, 2021. “January 6th, Peter. January 6th! January 6th, 2021. That is a fact,” Jean-Pierre repeatedly stated, pointing to the day’s violent riot at the Capitol as justification for the label.

Doocy, pressing further, reminded Jean-Pierre that it had been only two days since another alleged attempt on Trump’s life and asked how many more assassination attempts would occur before the administration rethinks its language. Jean-Pierre, however, dismissed his premise, reiterating that this administration has consistently condemned political violence, pointing out the President’s public gratitude for Trump’s safety after prior incidents.

Patriotic beachwear for freedom lovers! Shop now and get 10% off with code RB10. Vet & LEO-founded.

While the White House has been clear about opposing all forms of political violence, Jean-Pierre emphasized that their condemnation of Trump centers around facts reported by multiple outlets, citing over 60 Republican judges who confirmed the 2020 election results were legitimate and lawful.

She reminded the press corps of the countless rioters who marched on the Capitol that day, spurred on by Trump’s refusal to accept the election results. “I mean, if that’s not a threat to our democracy, when it was one of the darkest days of our democracy — January 6th, one of the darkest days — then what is?”

Although the press secretary briefly acknowledged the value of policy debates in a democracy, she quickly shifted gears, drawing a hard line on what she deemed to be “dangerous rhetoric.” Instead of engaging in an open exchange, she doubled down on the tired narrative that continues to paint Trump and his supporters in the worst possible light. Jean-Pierre refused to address the real issue that Doocy raised—the potential danger of the administration’s language. By labeling Trump a “threat,” this White House runs the risk of fanning the flames of political violence rather than lowering the temperature.