Okay, here’s a breakdown of the key points from the provided text, focusing on the themes of Trump’s attempts to weaponize the Department of Justice and the erosion of its independence:
Core Argument:
The article argues that Donald Trump is actively dismantling the customary separation between the White House and the Department of Justice, aiming to use the DOJ to target his political enemies. This is being facilitated by loyalists like Pam Bondi who are willing to act as his personal lawyers rather than uphold the principles of autonomous justice.
Key Evidence & Points:
* Direct Requests for Prosecution: Trump directly called for the prosecution of James Comey, Adam Schiff, and Letitia James – all individuals who had taken actions against him (investigations, impeachment, lawsuits).
* Comey Indictment & Prosecutor Resistance: Comey was indicted shortly after Trump’s demand, but only after the original prosecutor refused to bring charges and was replaced. Another prosecutor resigned rather than pursue charges against James. This highlights pressure being applied to the DOJ.
* erosion of Barriers: The ”normal barriers” between the White House and the DOJ have been “obliterated.” Trump explicitly stated his desire for ”JUSTICE” (i.e., retribution) in a message to Bondi.
* Long History of Disregard for Due Process: The article points to Trump’s past behavior – calling for the execution of the Central park Five before conviction (and their later exoneration), and demanding Hillary Clinton’s imprisonment despite no charges being filed – as evidence of a consistent disregard for the principles of the criminal justice system.
* Frustration with Previous AGs: Trump wanted the DOJ to serve his personal whims, but was sometimes blocked by Jeff Sessions and William Barr, and by career officials upholding norms.
* Current Obstacles Removed: The article suggests that the obstacles Trump faced in his first term are now gone, and he is surrounded by advisors (like Miller and Vought) who support expanding presidential power.
* Bondi’s Role: Pam Bondi’s refusal to answer questions before the Senate oversight committee, and her apparent deference to trump, are presented as evidence of her willingness to act as his personal lawyer.
* Firewall Breakdown: Senator Whitehouse states the firewall between the political side and the DOJ has ”fully eroded.” He also points to the irony of a former FBI director being charged with lying to Congress while the current Attorney General is potentially being untruthful to Congress.
* Use of Other Government Levers: The governance is also using other means to punish its foes, such as wielding the threat of audits.
In essence, the article paints a picture of a former president actively seeking to politicize the justice system and a network of loyalists willing to help him do so. It raises concerns about the future of the DOJ’s independence and the rule of law.
