Trump’s “I Don’t Know” on Due Process Raises Constitutional Alarms

In a moment that stunned legal communities and reignited questions about presidential competence, former President Donald Trump answered, “I don’t know,” when asked whether citizens and non-citizens are entitled to due process under the Fifth Amendment. The clip, shared widely across social platforms, quickly went viral, especially on r/law, where lawyers and legal enthusiasts unpacked the implications of his response.

A President Who Took the Oath — Twice

Trump’s apparent unfamiliarity with due process and the Constitution’s Fifth Amendment drew swift backlash. Redditors pointed out that Trump has taken the presidential oath not once, but twice — an oath that begins with a promise to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” One commenter noted:

“He’s literally said the oath twice. It’s literally the very first sentence. The fact that this fucking guy was ever president at all let alone twice is so deeply embarrassing and absurd.”

Others likened his confusion to deliberate ignorance or even plausible deniability.

“Don’t let him lie to you,” another user wrote. “He’s saying he doesn’t know for plausible deniability for his own possible due process — and that is all.”

The Legal Community Reacts

The legal subreddit — known for strict moderation and focused analysis — was unusually unanimous in its condemnation. Lawyers highlighted that Trump’s answer undermines a core principle of the Constitution, especially disturbing given his record of flouting legal norms.

A top comment framed the moment succinctly:

“As President, understanding the Constitution is a core duty. Trump’s uncertainty raises serious doubts about his ability to uphold the very laws he swore to protect.”

Another user chimed in with historical context:

“He’s plead the Fifth hundreds of times in his business lawsuits. He knows damn well what it is — he just doesn’t care when it’s not protecting him.”

A Broader Reflection of the Political Moment

Many commenters connected Trump’s comment to a broader erosion of democratic norms and legal accountability. The thread quickly turned into a discussion on the long-term consequences of electing leaders who treat the Constitution as optional. Several pointed to Project 2025 and other anti-democratic agendas promoted by his allies.

One Redditor painted a grim metaphor:

“America is the business. Trump is Paulie. And the GOP is the mob ‘busting it out.’ They’ll burn the place down for insurance money.”

What This Means Going Forward

While Trump’s comment might seem like yet another in a long line of shocking gaffes, legal experts and political analysts warn against brushing it off. In a time when authoritarianism is on the rise globally, a former president’s open confusion (or indifference) regarding the Constitution is more than just a soundbite — it’s a warning.

Final Thoughts

Whether Trump’s answer was ignorance or deflection, the response on Reddit — particularly from legal professionals — was clear: no public official, especially a president, should be this detached from the foundational legal principles of the United States. The Constitution isn’t a suggestion. And neither is due process.