In a significant move, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has dismissed several officials involved in the federal prosecutions of President Donald Trump. This decision follows closely on the heels of Trump's second inauguration for a non-consecutive term at the White House. The action marks a pivotal shift within the DOJ as it concludes its legal proceedings against Trump.
The firings were confirmed to NBC News by a DOJ official, who stated that the department had terminated the employment of more than a dozen officials. These individuals had been part of the team under special counsel Jack Smith, which handled two criminal cases against Trump. Fox News initially reported the dismissals, highlighting that these officials played critical roles in the prosecutions.
"Today, Acting Attorney General James McHenry terminated the employment of a number of DOJ officials who played a significant role in prosecuting President Trump," – DOJ official
The Department of Justice had already terminated the federal prosecutions against Trump. The decision to dismiss the officials comes as part of a broader initiative to address concerns related to the perceived weaponization of government institutions. Acting Attorney General, whose name was not disclosed, emphasized the department's commitment to this mission.
"This action is consistent with the mission of ending the weaponization of government." – Acting Attorney General
These developments arrive just a week after Trump's return to office, underscoring a renewed direction in federal legal priorities. The prosecutions, led by special counsel Jack Smith, had been a focal point of contention during Trump's political career. The dismissal of these officials signals an attempt by the DOJ to distance itself from past controversies and re-align its focus.