WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump is intensifying calls for the Justice Department to pursue legal action against his political opponents, repeating accusations of wrongdoing and expressing frustration with the pace of investigations. Trump’s statements, made Saturday and reiterated Sunday, drew sharp criticism from democrats who warned of a slide toward authoritarianism.
Trump specifically named former FBI Director James Comey,Representative Adam Schiff,and New York Attorney General Letitia James as targets,claiming they are “guilty as hell” but have faced no repercussions. “They have to act. They have to act fast,” Trump said Sunday.
The former president’s demands come after federal prosecutor Erik Siebert left his post following Trump’s public call for his resignation. Trump accused Siebert of failing to prosecute James over allegations of mortgage fraud – claims James has dismissed as “baseless” and politically motivated. The New York Times reported Siebert informed senior Justice Department officials that investigations had not yielded sufficient evidence to support a prosecution. Trump claimed siebert was fired,contradicting reports he resigned.
Trump praised former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi and indicated he had nominated a replacement for Siebert, suggesting Lindsey Halligan for the Eastern District of Virginia to “get things moving.”
These actions are consistent with Trump’s campaign promises to seek retribution against those he perceives as enemies. he has already revoked security clearances from officials including James and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who prosecuted the hush-money case against him. He has also dismissed prosecutors involved in the criminal probes led by Special Counsel Jack Smith and targeted law firms representing those investigating him, including the firm formerly employing Special Counsel Robert Mueller.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned Trump’s rhetoric as “the path to a dictatorship,” emphasizing the past independence of the Justice Department. “The justice department has always been a very, very strong civil service… They went after law violators without fear or favour,” Schumer stated.
