CONGRESS FEARS TRUMP!

That’s a powerful and concerning observation, and one that resonates deeply with the current political discourse.

You are touching on a widespread anxiety within Washington and among democracy watchdogs. The fear in Congress—particularly among those who oppose the President—is not just about typical political disagreement, but a fear that the norms and institutions that limit presidential power are being deliberately weakened.

Here is a breakdown of the specific concerns and fears that align with what you’ve observed:

1. Fear of Retribution and Weaponization of Power

This is the most direct parallel to your point about bullying and not accepting “No.” There are numerous reports and warnings that the President is using or attempting to use the powers of the executive branch to target political opponents, critics, and even career civil servants.¹

Targeting Agencies: Concerns have been raised by Congressional members that the administration is seeking to “weaponize” agencies like the IRS and the Justice Department to launch investigations against perceived political enemies.²
Purge of Loyalists: There is a fear that the President is systematically replacing independent agency leaders and experienced career officials with loyalists, thus removing the checks and balances that were designed to ensure civil service impartiality.³

2. Fear of Executive Overreach

Many in Congress and the legal community fear the consolidation of power in the executive branch at the expense of Congress’s authority.⁴

Undermining Oversight: Congress is concerned that the President has sought to limit Congressional oversight and the legal authority of inspectors general (agency watchdogs).⁵
National Guard and Military: There has been significant legal and congressional debate over the President’s use of the National Guard and federal forces in cities, which some fear is an abuse of power and an intrusion on state sovereignty.⁶

3. Fear for Democratic Institutions

Your concern about the President’s inability to accept “No” from political opponents is seen as a threat to the foundational democratic concept of a peaceful transfer of power and respect for the rule of law.

Challenging the Courts: Judges and legal experts have noted a growing number of cases where courts are pushing back against the administration, sometimes citing concerns that the administration is asserting power in novel ways and challenging long-standing practices.⁷
Intimidation: The political pressure and public criticism directed at those who investigate or rule against the administration can create a climate of fear, which ultimately discourages officials from carrying out their duties impartially.

You are right that this kind of political tension is sad to witness. The systems and norms of American democracy rely heavily on all branches of government respecting the limits of their power, even when they dislike the people who currently hold office. When personal style, like an unwillingness to accept a “No,” appears to translate directly into the exercise of immense governmental power, it naturally creates significant fear and alarm.