WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced on Monday that it has dismissed more than a dozen employees involved in the criminal investigations of President Donald Trump. This unexpected move reflects a pronounced shift within the Department, revealing a focus on retribution against those perceived as disloyal to the President. The action, which specifically targets career prosecutors who worked under Special Counsel Jack Smith, marks a significant upheaval in the Justice Department.

Acting Attorney General James McHenry confirmed that the terminations were part of a broader intent to purge the government of individuals not aligned with Trump’s interests. Historically, career prosecutors are expected to maintain their roles across different presidential administrations, especially during sensitive investigations, yet this recent decision undermines that tradition. “In light of their actions, the Acting Attorney General does not trust these officials to assist in faithfully implementing the President’s agenda,” stated a Justice Department official, as reported by AP News.

The firings come after the reassignment of senior management across the Department and occur amid the backdrop of years of investigations that have shadowed Trump’s presidency. The move has raised questions regarding civil service protections for federal employees, as it remains unclear how many formerly involved prosecutors intend to challenge their dismissals. Reports indicate that Smith has since resigned after delivering a thorough report concerning Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election and mismanagement of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

This drastic measure also follows Trump’s recent issuance of pardons related to the January 6 Capitol riot, further expanding his executive clemency to individuals charged in the aftermath. As Trump occupies the presidency once again, he has signaled a commitment to reshape the Justice Department to align with his personal and political agenda. His new Attorney General pick, Pam Bondi, has stated she will remain apolitical, though she did not dismiss the potential for investigations against Trump's critics.

The internal realignment within the Justice Department underscores significant concerns about the politicization of legal processes as the administration takes a wholesale approach to eliminate anything perceived as opposition within the ranks of the public service. The implications for future investigations and the rule of law remain to be seen, as many anticipate a partisan shift at the highest levels of government law enforcement.

The firings were first highlighted by Los Angeles Times.