Rep. Don Beyer, who has been serving in the U.S. Congress representing Virginia’s 8th district since 2015, recently shared his views on social media regarding former President Donald Trump’s recent actions and statements. Beyer, born in Trieste in 1950 and currently residing in Alexandria, has a background that includes graduating from Williams College with a BA in 1972.
On June 13, 2025, Rep. Beyer commented on Trump’s admiration for authoritarian figures and his recent threat to use “heavy force” against protesters exercising their constitutional rights. He expressed concern over these threats regardless of whether the protests are peaceful. “Donald Trump has not been shy about expressing admiration for dictators, and recently threatened to respond with ‘heavy force’ against anyone who dares to exercise their constitutional right to protest — regardless of whether or not they are peaceful.”
In another post made shortly after, Beyer emphasized that these actions do not occur without context. He pointed out Trump’s history of defying court orders, escalating tensions, and deploying military forces into communities against the wishes of state and local leaders. He also referenced an incident involving Senator Padilla. “This isn’t happening in a vacuum. We’ve seen Trump defy court orders, escalate tensions, and deploy the military into communities over the objections of state and local leaders.“
Further reflecting on military deployment issues, Beyer shared feedback from uniformed personnel who disapprove of showcasing military power for political purposes. As the son of an Army veteran, he voiced his respect for the Army but criticized this approach as inappropriate for honoring its 250th anniversary. “I’ve heard from people in uniform that they don’t like flaunting our force this way and think it’s political.”
