Newt Gingrich Warns of Deepening Division, Urges Return to Rule of Law

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has expressed concern over what he sees as rising hostility from Democratic leaders toward former President Donald Trump, warning that such rhetoric threatens to further divide the nation. In a recent Fox News interview, Gingrich singled out House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, accusing him of using inflammatory language and encouraging distrust in government institutions.

Gingrich likened the current political climate to a “constitutional stress test,” referencing Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. He argued that maintaining democratic values requires restraint, law enforcement, and a renewed commitment to unity. He defended figures like Elon Musk—frequently criticized for ties to the Trump administration—as targets of unjust backlash against reformers.

He also criticized House Democrats for their behavior during a recent joint session of Congress, saying they remained silent even during emotional or unifying moments. “They couldn’t applaud anything,” he said, citing this as evidence of a lack of vision and unwillingness to engage in bipartisan solutions.

Citing polling from his conservative think tank, Gingrich claimed 82% of Americans believe the political system is corrupt. He warned that this level of distrust, if ignored, poses real risks to the health of democracy.

Although openly partisan, Gingrich urged both parties to avoid escalating hostility, especially targeting families of public officials. “We’re at a point where the rule of law has to mean something again,” he said, predicting that voter frustration will shape the 2026 midterms and calling for leadership focused on substance over slogans.