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Riggleman Calls GOP 'Public Enemy No. 1'

  //stocks-investing.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/27/riggleman-calls-gop-public-enemy-no-1.html
  Published in Stocks and Investing on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 14:42 GMT by The New Republic
      Locales: Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania, Texas, UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - February 27th, 2026 - Denver Riggleman, a former Republican Congressman representing Virginia's 5th district, has ignited a firestorm with his increasingly forceful condemnation of the modern Republican Party. In a recent interview, Riggleman went further than ever before, declaring the GOP "public enemy number one," a stunning rebuke from someone who once served within its ranks. This statement is the latest in a series of outspoken criticisms Riggleman has leveled against a party he says has fundamentally changed and embraced dangerous extremism.

Riggleman, who served in Congress from 2019 to 2021, isn't simply offering partisan criticism. His condemnation stems from a deeply felt disillusionment rooted in his firsthand observations of the party's internal dynamics. He points to a radical shift in ideology, away from traditional conservative principles and towards a dangerous embrace of election denialism, conspiracy theories, and unwavering loyalty to former President Donald Trump, even in the face of documented evidence and legal repercussions.

"It's not about policy differences anymore," Riggleman explained in an extended interview earlier today. "It's about a complete disregard for truth, for democratic norms, and for the very foundations of our republic. The willingness to peddle lies and embrace extremism - that's what makes them a threat, a 'public enemy number one'."

His criticism isn't solely focused on the high-profile figures often associated with the party's more controversial stances. Riggleman argues the rot runs deep, affecting grassroots organizations, local party leadership, and even seemingly moderate politicians who are unwilling to publicly challenge the extremist elements within their own ranks. He claims a culture of fear and self-preservation has gripped the party, silencing dissenting voices and rewarding unwavering loyalty above all else.

This shift, according to Riggleman, became increasingly apparent during the lead-up to and aftermath of the 2020 presidential election. He describes witnessing a growing number of colleagues embracing demonstrably false claims of widespread voter fraud, despite being presented with evidence to the contrary. This reluctance to accept reality, he argues, has created a dangerous feedback loop, fueling further conspiracy theories and eroding trust in democratic institutions. Riggleman recounted instances where he personally attempted to reason with colleagues, sharing factual information, but was met with hostility or dismissed as disloyal.

"I tried to appeal to their sense of reason, to remind them of their oath to the Constitution," Riggleman said. "But it was like talking to a wall. They were more concerned with pleasing a particular audience or avoiding retribution than with upholding the truth."

Riggleman's public denunciation of the GOP extends beyond verbal criticism. He has actively demonstrated his disapproval, notably removing a Trump campaign sign from his property following the January 6th insurrection. This seemingly small act, he says, was a symbolic gesture of his rejection of the direction the party had taken. He continues to use his platform to call for a return to principle and a rejection of extremism, even though he acknowledges it's an uphill battle.

Political analysts are divided on the impact of Riggleman's statements. Some dismiss them as the bitter rantings of a disgruntled former politician. However, others see them as a significant warning sign, highlighting the deep fissures within the Republican Party and the growing threat of extremism. The fact that Riggleman served as a Republican congressman lends his criticism added weight, forcing a reckoning within the party and prompting a broader conversation about its future. The rise of independent and third-party movements also reflects this discontent.

Looking ahead to the 2028 presidential election, Riggleman predicts a continued struggle for the soul of the Republican Party. He fears that unless the party can confront its demons and embrace a more moderate path, it will continue to alienate voters and ultimately undermine American democracy. "This isn't about left versus right anymore," he concluded. "It's about reality versus fantasy. And right now, fantasy is winning."

The long-term implications of Riggleman's outspokenness, and the broader trends he highlights, remain to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the Republican Party is undergoing a period of profound transformation, and the future of American politics may well depend on the outcome.