Attorney General Mayes Closes the Book on Trump Investigation

By Staff Reporter |

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has concluded her investigation into President-elect Donald Trump’s controversial remarks regarding former congresswoman Liz Cheney. The inquiry was initially prompted by Trump’s assertion that Cheney should experience the realities of war before endorsing military interventions.

Mayes explained to the Arizona Republic that her office’s decision to drop the investigation stemmed from a recognition that Trump’s comments fell under First Amendment protections. This shift came after the former president labeled Cheney a “radical war hawk” during a Halloween event, questioning her understanding of warfare.

Trump’s critical comments emerged in response to a question from conservative pundit Tucker Carlson. “Let’s put her with a rifle standing there with nine barrels shooting at her,” Trump stated, emphasizing that the rhetoric of war changes when confronted with its serious implications. His pointed words aimed to illustrate what he perceives as the disconnect between policymakers and soldiers.

Cheney swiftly retaliated, describing Trump as a “dictator” and accusing him of instilling fear among those who oppose him. “This is how dictators destroy free nations,” she declared, urging Americans to guard against compromising their freedoms by supporting an unstable leader.

The day following Trump’s speech, Mayes announced her investigation, suggesting that Trump’s comments could potentially qualify as a death threat under state law. “I’m not prepared now to say whether it was or it wasn’t,” she remarked, underscoring the need for maintaining peace during the election period.

Despite closing the investigation into Trump’s remarks, Mayes reaffirmed that her office would persist with the ongoing legal action regarding multiple felony charges against Trump and his 2020 electors related to conspiracy and forgery. “Those are serious charges, and they are not affected one bit by Donald Trump’s reelection to the presidency,” she asserted.

During a recent press conference, Mayes also expressed concerns about Trump’s influence on state and federal constitutions, particularly referencing the Project 2025 plan. “If Donald Trump tries to do that, he will have to go through me first,” she added, signaling her commitment to uphold constitutional integrity.