Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has condemned former President Donald Trump for reigniting the controversial "Lock Her Up" chants at his rallies, calling the rhetoric "dangerous" and a threat to democratic norms.
Whitmer, a prominent Democrat, warned that such language could incite further political violence in an already polarised America. The phrase, originally directed at Hillary Clinton during the 2016 election, has resurfaced in Trump’s recent campaign events.
A Warning Against Escalating Tensions
Speaking to journalists, Whitmer emphasised the real-world consequences of inflammatory political speech. "When leaders encourage this kind of behaviour, it puts people at risk," she said. "We’ve seen the fallout before—threats, intimidation, and even violence."
Her comments come amid growing concerns over the potential for unrest as the 2024 US election approaches. Whitmer herself was the target of a foiled kidnapping plot in 2020, which investigators linked to extremist rhetoric.
Trump’s Response and the Political Divide
Trump’s camp has dismissed Whitmer’s criticism, framing the chants as harmless political theatre. However, analysts argue that such tactics deepen divisions and undermine trust in democratic institutions.
Whitmer, seen as a potential future presidential candidate, has positioned herself as a vocal advocate for civility in politics. "We need leaders who bring people together, not tear them apart," she asserted.
The Bigger Picture
The resurgence of "Lock Her Up" highlights the enduring influence of Trump’s brand of politics. With the Republican primary season heating up, observers worry that aggressive rhetoric could dominate the race.
Whitmer’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the stakes: "Words matter. Leadership matters. We can’t afford to normalise this."
