The COVID-19 pandemic is testing democracies around the world. Authoritarian-minded leaders are using the crisis as an excuse to violate democratic norms and weaken institutions. And sadly we are no exception.

Trump's threat yesterday to force Congress out of session was outrageous and a stark reminder that we cannot ignore the threat of authoritarian incrementalism here at home.

Sign here to reject Trump's power grab. ([link removed])

Never, in the 232-year history of our Constitution, has a President attempted to do this. And it is extremely clear: the Constitution does not give Trump the power to do this now. It has a very narrow presidential power to adjourn Congress that applies only when Congress itself cannot agree on an adjournment date. That is not the case right now.

But this is not about the fine points of Constitutional law. Trump has said over and over that he believes he can do whatever he wants. And that he believes Presidential power is absolute. He is wrong and we need to make that clear to him.

We cant let Trump's escalating threats to our democratic institutions and norms go unchallenged. Sign here and then forward to friends and family. ([link removed])

Americans, regardless of party affiliation, need to stand up now and say, "STOP."

This pandemic crisis gives unscrupulous leaders new opportunities to weaken democracy in the name of fighting the virus. Few of us would have imagined that this threat might come to our own doorstep.

We will overcome the coronavirus. And with vigilance we will ensure that our democratic institutions are not weakened in the process, both now and in November!

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Were all in this together,

Chris

Paid for by Van Hollen for Senate
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