Attorney General Merrick Garland works feverishly within the DOJ to mitigate widespread concern amidst Donald Trump’s potential return.
Garland Engages with DOJ Lawyers
Merrick Garland, the Attorney General, is actively working to deter lawyers from exiting the Department of Justice as they fear retribution if Donald Trump returns to power. Many attorneys are worried about the repercussions of their involvement in significant cases against Trump associates.
AG Garland Trying to Talk Nervous DOJ Lawyers Into Staying — Amid Fear of Trump Retribution: WSJ https://t.co/9koAmKGeCI
— Mediaite (@Mediaite) December 29, 2024
Lawyers within the DOJ are feeling uneasy primarily because Trump intends to seek retribution. His selection of Kash Patel for the FBI further amplifies these concerns. Patel has a noted history of advocating for actions against individuals perceived as part of the “deep state”—a term he sometimes uses to describe individuals opposing Trump’s policies.
.@RadioFreeTom on the nomination of Kash Patel:
— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) December 1, 2024
“Patel is about as dangerous as it gets, not because he’s that much of a true believer in anything, but because…he believes in nothing except serving Donald Trump…they’re there to build an authoritarian country and to put… pic.twitter.com/I1ni077dkR
An Environment of Uncertainty
Sources like The Wall Street Journal indicate a marked increase in DOJ lawyers submitting resumes to prestigious law firms. They hope to safeguard their careers from potential retribution linked to past cases involving individuals like Peter Navarro and Steve Bannon, known allies of Trump.
“Deep state” – Kash Patel
To counter these concerns, Garland and senior DOJ officials advise lawyers to remain and utilize their extensive expertise to ensure the continuity of government operations. Despite this, some continue seeking legal counsel to prepare for potential investigations or harassment from a Trump-led administration.
Special Counsel Investigations
The current political climate places Special Counsel Jack Smith and his team under scrutiny. Entrusted with investigating Trump for election interference and document mishandling, these individuals stand at the epicenter of the tension within the DOJ. Despite dropping two cases against Trump due to DOJ policy, concerns over future roles remain. Many of his team are considering departure rather than reintegration into previous DOJ roles.
As Trump’s potential return looms, Garland’s task to retain vital DOJ personnel becomes even more crucial. Maintaining a stable and effective DOJ hinges on keeping experienced legal minds in place, ensuring justice and law remain intact during these politically turbulent times.
