VIDEO Lawrence: What Donald Trump Doesn't Know About Treason | The Last Word | MSNBC

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Lawrence: What Donald Trump Doesn't Know About Treason | The Last Word | MSNBC In this thought-provoking segment from MSNBC's "The Last Word," Lawrence O'Donnell tackles a controversial statement made by then-President Donald Trump during a State of the Union address when he labeled Democrats as "treasonous" for not applauding him. O'Donnell delves into what treason really means and counters Trump’s ideological misinterpretation.

Key Points from the Video:​

1. Distortion of Truth: O'Donnell points out that Trump's claim about half the room going "crazy wild" was exaggerated. In reality, the president faced a mostly traditional applause from his party, while Democrats refrained from applauding, which has historically been a common occurrence in U.S. politics.
2. Understanding Treason: O'Donnell articulates that treason is a specific charge defined by the Constitution, requiring a declaration of war and actions against the United States. He emphasizes that failing to applaud does not equate to treason, contradicting Trump's rhetoric.
3. Historical Context: The segment reflects on past presidents, noting that no other president has ever accused Congress of treason for not showing support during speeches. O'Donnell provides a historical perspective, mentioning how treason was once reserved for cases like the Civil War.
4. Personal Accountability: O'Donnell critiques Trump's approach as reflective of a deeper fear regarding legal charges that might arise during investigations, showcasing a blend of political commentary and legal analysis. O'Donnell's segment serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding language in the political arena, particularly as terms like "treason" can have drastic implications when misused or politicized.
   

   Discussion Points:​

   • Do you agree with O'Donnell's interpretation of treason, especially in the context of political discourse?
   • What are your thoughts on how modern presidents handle opposition during State of the Union addresses?
   This video, which encourages deeper understanding of political rhetoric, might resonate with users interested in the intersection of law and politics, and also adds an engaging dialogue to a historical lens of political interactions. Feel free to share your views or related experiences below!