On December 31, 2025, Donald Trump took to Truth Social with a fierce condemnation of Colorado officials, particularly targeting Governor Jared Polis and District Attorney Dan Rubinstein. He accused them of unjustly imprisoning Tina Peters, who alleged widespread voter fraud. In his post, Trump expressed deep frustration, writing, “God bless Tina Peters, who is now, for two years out of nine, sitting in a Colorado Maximum Security Prison, at the age of 73.” This stark depiction reflects both the severity of Peters’ situation and Trump’s determination to highlight alleged injustices in the electoral process.
Trump labeled Rubinstein a “RINO,” a term used to denounce Republicans who he perceives as insufficiently loyal to conservative principles. His rant didn’t shy away from harsh language, as he declared that both Rubinstein and Polis should “rot in hell.” This rhetoric underscores a growing dissatisfaction among certain conservatives regarding perceived betrayal by those within their ranks, especially in matters as contentious as election integrity. Peters’ case has become emblematic of what Trump and his supporters maintain is a broader trend of hostility directed at individuals who challenge the status quo on electoral issues.
In another post, Trump linked the actions of Colorado’s leadership to population decline in the state, suggesting that bad governance drives residents away. He cited statistics from United Van Lines, asserting that Colorado and California were among the top outbound states in 2025. By framing it this way, Trump connects the personal plight of Peters to a larger narrative about the failures of Democratic leadership. This strategy broadens the appeal of his message, resonating with those who are frustrated with local governance.
Furthermore, Trump criticized Democrats for their stance on voter identification, accusing them of wanting to cheat and manipulate electoral outcomes. His mention of voter ID reflects ongoing tensions around election security and casts doubt on the integrity of the electoral process from Trump’s perspective. He asserted that the refusal to adopt such measures is emblematic of a comprehension among Democrats that “they want to cheat.” This position aligns with the beliefs of many in Trump’s following, who see electoral integrity as a cornerstone of democracy.
Trump had previously announced a pardon for Peters, voicing concern over the alleged malpractices of Democratic officials. His proclamation emphasizes a narrative that Democrats prioritize prosecuting those advocating for election safety over addressing genuine crime. Trump characterized this as a failure of the Democratic party, which “chose instead to prosecute anyone they can find that wanted safe and secure elections.” This framing not only defends Peters but also positions her and others like her as victims of a political system that punishes challenges to its narrative.
However, it’s important to note that presidential pardons do not extend to state convictions, which means that Peters remains entangled in legal battles with the Colorado authorities. This unresolved status emphasizes the ongoing conflict between local legal systems and the push for election integrity espoused by Peters and Trump supporters alike. The juxtaposition of state law against the backdrop of national conversations about election integrity underscores the complexity of these cases.
In summary, Trump’s posts reflect a broader strategy to rally support around Tina Peters and highlight the struggles of those who challenge systemic electoral issues. His fiery language and specific accusations aim to galvanize his base by tapping into feelings of injustice and discontent. By positioning Peters’ fight as part of a larger battle against election fraud, he not only advocates for her release but also frames the conversation around national integrity and the actions of political opponents.
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