Merrick Garland Condemns Political Weaponization of DOJ

Merrick Garland Takes a Stand Against Political Interference

Attorney General Merrick Garland is poised to condemn ongoing efforts to transform the Justice Department (DOJ) into a political weapon during a significant address to department staff and U.S. attorneys on Thursday morning. In this anticipated speech, Garland will focus on preserving the longstanding norms of the DOJ.

Garland's Strong Defense of DOJ Staff

According to excerpts of his remarks, Garland will express concern over the 'escalation of attacks' against career staff over recent years, which have been propagated through conspiracy theories and various forms of intimidation, including threats of violence. He emphasizes, 'It is dangerous to target and intimidate individual employees of this Department simply for doing their jobs.'

Context Amid Political Tensions

This speech arises as former President Donald Trump has claimed the DOJ has been weaponized against him and suggested plans to politicize it if he returns to office. Although Trump is not mentioned directly, his rhetoric surrounding dismantling the DOJ and prosecuting political opponents often looms over such discussions.

Commitment to Independence

Garland's tenure has been characterized by a commitment to uphold the DOJ's independence from external pressures. He aims to reinforce this autonomy, referencing efforts made since he took office in 2021 to safeguard the department's integrity, including updated regulations on interfacing with Congress and the White House.

In thanking his staff for their resilience, Garland reflects, 'You deserve better.'(