The Justice Department faces unprecedented threats to its independence as Trump administration officials aggressively assert control over prosecutions and personnel. Recent actions, including the dismissal of charges against New York Mayor Eric Adams and demands for FBI agent names linked to Capitol riot investigations, have sparked accusations of political interference and systemic erosion of institutional integrity.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, who vowed impartiality during her confirmation, now oversees a department in turmoil. On Friday, federal prosecutors in New York resigned en masse after being ordered to drop corruption charges against Adams. In a scathing resignation letter, former prosecutor Hagan Scotten denounced the directive as “a demand only fools or cowards would follow.”
“The department appears to prioritize political loyalty over lawful conduct. Ordinary Americans would face consequences for similar actions,” warned Alberto Gonzales, former U.S. Attorney General under George W. Bush.
Key incidents fueling the crisis:
- Forced dismissal of Eric Adams’ corruption case to secure his cooperation on immigration policies
- Demands for names of 6,000+ FBI agents involved in January 6 investigations
- Creation of a ‘Weaponization Working Group’ targeting Trump’s political opponents
Justice Department leadership defended these moves as necessary reforms. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, a former Trump defense lawyer, claimed the Adams charges “hindered critical partnerships” on immigration enforcement. Prosecutors who refused dismissal orders face internal investigations.
The resignations mirror Watergate-era departures, with seven senior officials leaving this month alone. Retired federal prosecutor David Laufman cautioned:
“This calculated subjugation of DOJ risks permanent damage to America’s justice system. We’re witnessing a live constitutional threat.”
As Bondi’s team sues New York over driver’s license laws and reviews Trump-related prosecutions, critics argue the department increasingly serves White House interests. With more resignations expected, experts question whether the Justice Department can maintain its historic independence amid intensifying political pressures.