Attorney General Pam Bondi has dismissed more than 20 employees from the Department of Justice (DOJ) who were involved in investigations related to former President Donald Trump and the January 6 Capitol riot, according to multiple reports released over the weekend.
🔍 DOJ Overhaul Targets Trump-Era Investigators
The dismissals are part of a broader internal restructuring, focusing on individuals who previously worked under Special Counsel Jack Smith. Many of those affected were involved in investigations concerning Trump’s handling of classified documents and the events of January 6.
Axios reports that around 35 personnel have been let go so far, with an additional 15 to 17 still under review for possible termination. Those impacted include attorneys, U.S. Marshals, and various support staff based in DOJ offices across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Florida. Many were volunteers for assignments connected to the Trump investigations.
Leading the effort is Bondi’s recently established “Weaponization Working Group,” a task force charged with identifying DOJ employees alleged to have engaged in politically motivated conduct during previous inquiries.
“Some of these people were burrowed deep, and we’re finding them and making a determination,” a senior administration official told Axios.
🧠 Epstein Case Delayed Personnel Moves
Reports indicate that the dismissals were initially delayed due to internal debates over the handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. Earlier this week, Bondi’s office reaffirmed the 2019 conclusion that Epstein died by suicide and declared that no “client list” exists, frustrating some conservative commentators who expected more revelations.
Tensions reportedly escalated during a dispute between Bondi and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, a prominent supporter of Epstein-related conspiracy theories. According to CNN, Bongino was absent from the office on Friday, prompting speculation about a possible resignation, though no official confirmation has been given.
🚨 Bondi Reaffirms Her Role Amid Internal Tensions
Despite the controversy, Bondi has confirmed that she plans to remain in her position. In a statement to Fox News, she said she has “every intention to stay and serve,” amid growing speculation about Bongino’s future with the FBI.
A viral social media post by political commentator Eric Daugherty reflected the sentiment of some critics, stating:
“Bondi must reconsider. Bongino over Bondi.”
⚖️ DOJ Leaders Deny Internal Chaos
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who is assisting with the restructuring, dismissed claims of widespread dysfunction. He emphasized that the process is not a mass purge but a targeted effort to align the department’s staff with the administration’s goals.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Blanche said:
“The suggestion by anyone that there was any daylight between the FBI and DOJ leadership on this memo’s composition and release is patently false.”
📢 What’s Next?
With Bondi remaining at the helm and further reviews underway, the Justice Department appears committed to a sweeping realignment rooted in Trump-era political objectives. While controversy continues, the administration maintains that its actions are intended to restore impartiality and integrity within the DOJ.
Stay tuned for updates as this high-stakes transformation progresses.
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