Trump’s Justice Department Faces Democratic Scrutiny

Justice Department under Republican control

The Justice Department functioned for nearly two years as an extension of the White House, unchecked by a Republican-controlled Congress.

Democratic gains shift power dynamics

Sweeping Democratic gains in Congress have shifted the balance of power in Washington, teeing up an onslaught of expected investigations.

Attorney General pledges cooperation

Attorney General Todd Blanche says the department will cooperate with Congress but has also insisted that 'we will not back down' from the Republican president’s agenda.

“we will not back down”

U.S. attorneys prepare for 'wartime' footing

A top Blanche aide told prosecutors to prepare for 'wartime' footing, suggesting more U.S. attorneys may be pushed out.

“wartime”

Recent investigations face rejection

The department unsuccessfully sought an indictment against former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson and accelerated an investigation into Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar.

White House resistance to investigations

Trump accused Democrats of 'extortion' and ordered the attorney general to conduct an investigation into their rhetoric.

“extortion”

Department pledges continued focus

Blanche stated the department will not back down, saying 'this will not slow us down, this will not stop us' despite congressional scrutiny.

“this will not slow us down, this will not stop us”

U.S. attorneys face pressure

U.S. attorneys are preparing for potential departures after a spate of postelection resignations.

Department's response to scrutiny

The Justice Department said it has 'full confidence in the leaders stepping in to guide our Divisions, and its mission is unchanged: enforce the law, combat crime, and protect the American people.'

“full confidence in the leaders stepping in to guide our Divisions”