Donald Trump is once again facing sharp criticism from one of his oldest rivals in Congress. Senator Adam Schiff of California accused the president of being “terrified” after taking steps that he says threaten the core of American democracy.
Schiff, who was the lead prosecutor in Trump’s first impeachment trial and a key member of the January 6th Committee, made the comments in a message to supporters on Sunday. He argued that Trump had “poked the bear” and now fears the political backlash.
“Unless you are part of the MAGA world, you probably know me from Trump’s constant attacks,” Schiff wrote. He pointed to insults that Trump has directed at him for years, including terms like “sleazebag,” “traitor,” and “lowlife.” Schiff said these attacks now serve as a “badge of honor.”
The senator added that the problem is no longer only about personal attacks. “Trump is at it again. But this time his attacks are not just against me. He is going after our democracy itself,” Schiff wrote.
According to Schiff, Trump is worried about losing political ground in the upcoming midterm elections. Instead of changing his policies, Schiff argued, Trump is trying to keep his power by reshaping how congressional districts are drawn.
Schiff said Trump is pressuring Republicans in Texas to redraw the state’s congressional maps in ways that would favor his allies. The move, he claimed, is a desperate attempt to hold on to power as his popularity wanes.
“His solution is not to end his pointless trade wars, stop the heavy-handed immigration raids, or rethink his deeply unpopular Big Ugly Bill,” Schiff explained. “It is to demand Republicans in Texas change their maps.”
He warned that if Texas Republicans follow Trump’s request, California will need to push back. “It is sad. It is tragic. But if Texas acts, California must respond,” Schiff said.
To prepare for that possibility, Schiff joined California Governor Gavin Newsom to support a new state measure called the “Election Rigging Response Act.” The plan, which California voters will consider in November, would allow the state to nullify any election map changes in Texas that are seen as unfair.
“I was proud to stand with Governor Newsom as he introduced this act,” Schiff said. “The people of California will decide in November. If we win, we will block anything Texas tries. If we lose, Trump may have two more years of unchecked power.”
The senator concluded with a sharp warning. “Donald Trump has poked the bear. It is time to fight back.”
Trump, who has often used his campaign rallies and social media posts to attack Schiff, has not yet responded directly to these latest remarks. However, allies of the president have long dismissed such criticism as partisan politics.
Political observers note that Trump has increasingly pushed state-level Republicans to pass laws or redraw districts that strengthen his influence. His critics argue this is part of a broader strategy to weaken democratic norms and secure more control ahead of 2026.
Schiff’s message highlights the deep divide between Trump and Democrats in Congress. It also reflects how battles over voting laws and redistricting continue to shape the national debate. While Trump’s supporters see his efforts as necessary to protect conservative values, opponents say they undermine basic democratic principles.
For Schiff, the clash is personal as well as political. Trump’s insults have followed him for years, yet the senator insists he is not backing down. “Every attack from Trump shows he is afraid. That fear is why he lashes out,” Schiff wrote.
As the midterm elections approach, the conflict between Trump and Schiff is expected to intensify. Both men are experienced fighters in political battles, and neither appears willing to step aside.
Whether voters will support California’s proposed Election Rigging Response Act remains uncertain, but Schiff is betting that people in his state are ready to challenge Trump’s influence. “This is about more than one man,” he said. “It is about protecting the rights of every voter in this country.”
For now, the fight over maps, laws, and political power continues. Trump may claim strength, but Schiff argues his actions show fear. The senator’s message leaves little doubt that the clash will define the coming months.
