Washington, D.C. – Former President Donald Trump has escalated his attacks on Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), publicly demanding that Schiff face jail time for alleged mortgage fraud. The accusations stem from a report by Fannie Mae's Financial Crimes Division, which, according to Trump, concluded Schiff engaged in a "sustained pattern of possible occupancy misrepresentation" on five Fannie Mae loans. Schiff has vehemently denied the allegations, dismissing them as politically motivated retribution.
The controversy centers on Schiff's ownership of homes in both California and Maryland. Trump claims that Schiff misrepresented his primary residence for mortgage purposes. While Fannie Mae's report indicated "possible occupancy misrepresentation," several news outlets have clarified that the report did not use the term "fraud" or definitively conclude that a crime had been committed.
In response to Trump's demands, Senator Schiff released a video statement, directly addressing the former president's accusations. "This bogus latest attack — this bogus latest call for me to be prosecuted or to be jailed — is not going to deter me," Schiff stated. He further characterized Trump's actions as an attempt at "political retribution" and an "abuse of power," suggesting it was a distraction from other issues.
The renewed animosity is part of a long-standing political rivalry between Trump and Schiff. Schiff, as a former House member, led the first impeachment inquiry against Trump in 2020. Trump has frequently used derogatory nicknames for Schiff and has repeatedly called for his prosecution or jailing over various matters.
The allegations of mortgage fraud and Trump's call for imprisonment mark the latest chapter in this ongoing feud. Schiff has consistently maintained his innocence, attributing the accusations to Trump's history of targeting political opponents. The incident highlights the continued tension and personal attacks prevalent in current U.S. political discourse.