Attorney General Merrick Garland’s leadership at the Justice Department has drawn stark contrasts with the approach taken during the Trump administration, as outlined in the new book, “Injustice” by Carol Leonnig and Aaron C. Davis. The authors emphasize Garland’s commitment to the ethical independence of the Justice Department and his cautious approach to prosecuting political figures. This philosophy was highlighted in 2021 when President Biden stated that he believed individuals who defy congressional subpoenas should face prosecution. Garland swiftly emphasized that the Justice Department would base its decisions solely on the facts and the law, distancing the agency from political influence.
In contrast, the book draws a concerning portrait of the current political landscape under Trump’s influence, where Attorney General Pam Bondi appears to comply with the former president’s demands for revenge against political adversaries, including high-profile figures like the former FBI director James Comey. This shift has prompted a chilling environment within the Justice Department, highlighting a departure from the institution’s traditional values of independence and impartiality.
The timeline of events underscores Garland’s cautious stance, particularly evident in the investigations of Trump. It was not until the spring of 2022 that Garland approved an inquiry into Trump for allegedly hiding classified documents, and only later, in November 2022, did he appoint Jack Smith as special counsel to examine Trump’s involvement in the January 6 insurrection. The delay allowed Trump to gain momentum in his defense against legal scrutiny, indicating a prolonged struggle for accountability.
Leonnig and Davis express that the current administration resembles a departure from the ideals that Garland represents, as Bondi’s reign exemplifies a worrying trend of score-settling. This includes pardons for January 6 rioters and punitive measures against perceived political enemies. The authors assert that the Justice Department’s previously esteemed political independence has been compromised, overshadowed by a culture of compliance and loyalty to Trump, as Bondi lauded him as the “greatest president in the history of our country.”
Garland’s hopefulness regarding a post-January 6 recovery, which he believed could lead to unity, appears increasingly distant in this landscape marred by divisiveness and partisanship. Ultimately, “Injustice” serves as both a critique of the current political climate and a reminder of the vital importance of maintaining the independence of justice in American governance.