Anger poured out of the White House just hours before the new year began.
Early Wednesday, Trump posted a message on Truth Social defending Tina Peters, a jailed Republican activist in Colorado.
Trump said Peters, now 73 and in poor health, is sitting in a Colorado maximum security prison for what he called the wrong reason. He framed her punishment as an attack on election truth and Republican voters.
Then the tone changed.
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Trump said it was hard to wish Peters a Happy New Year. But he had no problem wishing something else on those he blamed for her conviction.
He lashed out at Colorado’s governor. He attacked the district attorney, calling him a fake Republican. Trump said Democrats face no consequences while Republicans are punished.
He ended with words rarely used by a sitting president. He said those responsible should rot in Hell. He demanded that Peters be freed.
Tina Peters is a former county clerk in Mesa County, Colorado. After the 2020 election, she became known for pushing election fraud claims. She later shared sensitive election system data and refused court orders tied to voting equipment.
That decision led to criminal charges.
In 2025, Peters was convicted on multiple felony counts. A judge sentenced her to prison. Courts rejected claims that she was protecting democracy.
Because Peters is in state custody, Trump has no power to pardon her. Still, his post made clear he sees her as a political symbol, not a criminal.
The case has divided Republicans.
Some see Peters as a hero. Others say she crossed a line that no public official should cross. Colorado officials say the law was followed and the evidence was clear.
Trump does not agree.
His post repeats a familiar pattern. When the legal system rejects his claims, he attacks the people enforcing the law. Loyalty matters more than rulings. Anger replaces restraint.
The timing also stood out.
Most leaders mark the new year with calls for unity or hope. Trump is still fighting old battles. He is still punishing critics. And he is still willing to use the language of rage from the highest office in the country.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
