Concerns Over DOJ Integrity Amid Internal Firings and Political Allegiance Shifts

The Department of Justice faces scrutiny as concerns grow about its internal integrity. Recent firings and demotions raise questions about whether the DOJ’s commitment to independence and fairness is sacrificed for political loyalty to former President Trump. The implications of these changes could have a profound impact on the justice system. How deep do these transformations go?

Alarming Internal Changes Within the DOJ

An 18-year DOJ veteran, expressing concerns over internal order changes, points to the recent dismissals of over a dozen employees. These staff members were involved in criminal prosecutions against Trump. Reports suggest this could be an effort to purge those deemed disloyal to Trump. Traditionally, DOJ employees remain through different administrations without penalty for their investigative roles. These personnel changes are part of a broader strategy targeting perceived non-supporters of Trump’s administration.

The purge grows inside the Justice Dept

Agents and prosecutors who pursue terrorists, child predators and violent gangs…. fear emails announcing their demotions or firings

18-year veteran of agency warns crisis is growing

Via @CBSMornings ====> pic.twitter.com/r3n9IWIjVI

— Scott MacFarlane (@MacFarlaneNews) March 12, 2025

Acting Attorney General James McHenry justified the firings, citing a lack of trust in these officials to carry out the President’s agenda. The terminations targeted career prosecutors, suggesting a shift in the DOJ’s operational values. Concerns rise that these moves are aimed at reversing past investigations and strengthening Trump’s influence over the department’s proceedings.

Executive Orders Expanding Presidential Control

President Trump’s administration issued two executive orders to increase oversight of independent federal regulatory agencies. The “Agency Accountability Order” and the “Deregulatory Initiative Order” aim to bolster presidential influence over agency rulemaking and enforcement actions. These orders are regarded as opportunities to redefine executive power. They propose that the White House review significant regulatory actions, establishing closer presidential consultation.

Trump Administration Ousts Several Top Career Officials at DOJ Including at Least Three National Security Officials – National Security Division Completely Guttedhttps://t.co/8tE3mXez5f pic.twitter.com/ApcEH148Ko

— @UnsinkableDolly The Veterans Conductress (@UnsinkableDolly) March 9, 2025

“Today, Acting Attorney General James McHenry terminated the employment of a number of DOJ officials who played a significant role in prosecuting President Trump,” a Justice Department official.

The implications of these orders may slow down rulemaking processes or shift the nature of enforcement, potentially reducing agency operations. Litigation challenges these directives and the president’s authority to execute control over independent bodies. Legal outcomes remain uncertain as these initiatives progress through the courts.

Litigations and Institutional Shifts

Lawsuits are now challenging the DOJ firings, alleging violations against civil service protections provided by the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978. This act protects employees from arbitrary dismissals, emphasizing the need for a fair workplace. Federal employees continue pressing legal challenges that oppose efforts threatening their roles when perceived as non-conformist to executive preferences.

The legal battles over these developments will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of administrative operations in the United States. As courts deliberate on the scope of presidential influence, the justice system’s independence remains at a critical junction. Actions moving forward will define constitutional boundaries between executive power and foundational judicial independence.