Da Nang Dick Pushes For Constraints on Insurrection Act Before Trump Enters Office

As the prospect of Donald Trump returning to the presidency looms, Democrats are ramping up efforts to restrict his potential use of military powers under the Insurrection Act. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), often derisively nicknamed “Da Nang Dick” for his false claims of Vietnam War service, announced his intention to propose new legislation to constrain how a future Trump administration could interpret and apply this authority.

Appearing on MSNBC this Sunday, Blumenthal expressed concerns over Trump potentially invoking the Insurrection Act, a rarely used law that allows presidents to deploy the military domestically in certain emergencies. His proposal reflects heightened anxiety among Democrats about Trump’s potential approach to governance should he retake the White House in 2025.

The Insurrection Act, passed in 1807, gives U.S. presidents the authority to deploy federal troops on domestic soil under limited circumstances, such as suppressing insurrections or enforcing federal law when local authorities are unable or unwilling to do so. While it has been invoked sparingly in American history, its broad wording leaves room for interpretation, fueling fears among Trump’s critics.

During his first term, Trump considered using the act in 2020 during widespread protests and riots following the death of George Floyd. Ultimately, he refrained, but his contemplation of the law left a lasting impression on Democrats, many of whom believe he could resort to it more readily in a second term.

Blumenthal’s proposed bill aims to limit the president’s discretion in applying the Insurrection Act, requiring additional checks and oversight to prevent what he describes as potential “misuse” of military force against American citizens.

Blumenthal, who has long been a polarizing figure in American politics, is no stranger to controversy. Critics often highlight his past embellishments about his military service, including false claims of serving in Vietnam. In 2010, he was forced to publicly apologize after being exposed for exaggerating his record.

In addition to the military service controversy, Blumenthal has faced ridicule for other claims, including an assertion that he captained the Harvard Swim Team—a claim refuted by his peers. These incidents have earned him the nickname “Da Nang Dick,” a jab at his misrepresentation of his Vietnam record.

Conservative commentators argue that Blumenthal’s latest legislative push is less about genuine governance and more about stoking fear among Democrats and their base. “They’re terrified of Trump’s return,” one commentator said. “This is just another attempt to undermine his presidency before it even begins.”

Blumenthal’s proposal is part of a broader Democratic effort to prepare for a potential second Trump presidency. Many within the party have expressed alarm at the possibility of Trump’s return, citing concerns over his approach to executive power and governance.

This unease has led to various preemptive strategies, including efforts to secure elections, tighten congressional oversight, and challenge Trump’s eligibility under the 14th Amendment—though such efforts have faced significant legal hurdles.

For Democrats, the Insurrection Act represents a particularly sensitive issue. The law, originally intended to protect the nation from internal threats, has become a flashpoint in debates over executive authority and the balance of power.

Blumenthal’s proposal raises important constitutional questions. Critics argue that limiting the president’s ability to invoke the Insurrection Act could weaken the executive branch’s ability to respond to emergencies effectively. Supporters, however, see it as a necessary safeguard against potential abuse of power.

“If we don’t act now, we could see a situation where the military is used to suppress dissent or enforce authoritarian policies,” Blumenthal said during his MSNBC interview.

Legal experts are divided on the issue. Some believe the legislation could lead to lengthy court battles over separation of powers, while others argue that the existing checks and balances are sufficient to prevent misuse of the Insurrection Act.

Blumenthal’s announcement reflects the high stakes of the upcoming 2024 election. For Democrats, Trump’s potential return to power represents more than a political challenge—it’s seen as a threat to the nation’s democratic institutions. For Trump and his supporters, the Democrats’ efforts to constrain him before he even enters office are seen as evidence of a partisan vendetta.

Whether Blumenthal’s bill gains traction remains uncertain. With Republicans likely to oppose any effort perceived as targeting Trump specifically, the legislation may struggle to pass through Congress.

However, the debate underscores a deeper issue: the enduring divisions in American politics and the fears—real or exaggerated—that drive them.

Blumenthal’s push to limit the Insurrection Act reflects a preemptive strike against a possible second Trump administration. While the bill is framed as a measure to protect democratic norms, it highlights the deep mistrust between the two parties and their vastly different visions for the role of government.

As the country braces for another contentious election cycle, one thing is clear: the battles over executive power and political norms are far from over.