The Unraveling of the Justice Department: 60 attorneys describe a year of chaos
4 days ago
- #Political Influence
- #Ethics Violations
- #Justice Department
- President Trump's second term has led to significant turmoil within the Justice Department, with political influence overriding traditional norms.
- Over 200 career attorneys have been fired or resigned, leading to a breakdown in institutional culture and ethics.
- Attorneys reported being pressured to drop cases for political reasons and to pursue flimsy investigations to fit a narrative.
- The Justice Department under Trump has dismissed high-profile cases, including corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
- Ethics rules have been openly flouted, with senior officials accepting gifts and ignoring ethical guidelines.
- The Civil Rights Division has been redirected to focus on politically motivated investigations, such as alleged antisemitism in universities.
- Trump pardoned numerous individuals, including those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, undermining ongoing prosecutions.
- Career prosecutors have been demoted or fired for their involvement in cases disfavored by the administration, creating a culture of fear.
- The administration has targeted legal firms and individuals associated with Trump's political enemies, leading to accusations of weaponizing the Justice Department.
- The integrity of the Justice Department has been severely compromised, with many fearing long-term damage to the rule of law.