Trump warns Democrats he has criminal evidence against top party figures if they pursue third impeachment

President Donald Trump warned congressional Democrats on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2026, that if they move forward with a third impeachment he possesses evidence of criminal activity involving top Democratic figures.

Speaking to Newsmax host Rob Finnerty, Trump said the materials in his possession could be used “criminally” against former President Barack Obama, President Joe Biden and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. He added, “I could have done numbers on Hillary Clinton… I could have done numbers on Barack Hussein Obama… I’m talking about go after them criminally, or I could have done something having to do with their reputations and destroyed their reputations.”

When asked if he would actually release the information, Trump replied, “I guess not, probably not. But I think if they impeach me again, you know, again.” The remarks were made during a press briefing in Washington, D.C., following speculation that Democrats may re‑open impeachment discussions ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Democratic leaders have not ruled out pursuing another impeachment, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other members indicating that they are monitoring the president’s actions. The warning arrives about a month after Democrats began laying groundwork for impeachment inquiries into Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, focusing on his role in the Iran war, Pentagon contracts and alleged misconduct.

Trump’s comments echo his earlier statement to Newsmax that he has “information that could be used against Hillary Clinton and former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden if Democrats regain control of Congress and attempt to impeach him for a third time.” No specifics about the alleged evidence were provided, and the president did not indicate any intent to release it.

The potential third impeachment would follow Trump’s two previous impeachments during his first term, both of which ended in Senate acquittals. Under the Constitution, a simple majority in the House can approve articles of impeachment, while conviction in the Senate requires a two‑thirds vote.

Political analysts note that the president’s threat adds a new dimension to an already contentious political environment, raising questions about the use of personal information as a bargaining tool in legislative battles. The next steps will depend on whether House Democrats formally introduce articles against Trump and how the president’s warning influences their strategy.