Category: Attack Law Enforcement

Trump’s Dangerous Choice for FBI Director Signals Political Reprisal

Donald Trump has announced his intention to appoint Kash Patel as the new director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, a move that raises alarms about the potential politicization of the agency. Patel, a known Trump loyalist, has a troubling history of making false claims about the 2020 election being stolen and has called for a purge of those he deems anti-Trump within the Justice Department. This selection signals a dangerous trend where political allegiance supersedes competency, threatening the integrity of one of America’s premier law enforcement agencies.

Patel’s appointment is not just a mere personnel change; it represents a significant shift in how the FBI could operate under his direction. Critics, including former intelligence officers and lawmakers, voice concerns that Patel’s hardline stance and rhetoric against the so-called ‘deep state’ could transform the FBI into a tool for political retribution, targeting those who oppose Trump. Patel has previously expressed intentions to clean out federal bureaucrats, indicating a willingness to reshape the agency to align with Trump’s agenda.

During his time in Trump’s administration, Patel gained notoriety for drafting a memo that falsely accused the FBI of misconduct in their investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Despite the memo’s discredited claims, Patel continues to push conspiracy theories regarding the FBI and its role in undermining Trump. His history of spreading misinformation raises serious questions about his ability to lead an organization that relies on facts and impartiality.

Patel’s past experiences, including his brief tenure in the Trump administration, have led many to conclude he lacks the qualifications necessary for such a high-profile role. Even Trump’s former Attorney General William Barr later criticized Patel for his lack of experience and competence, calling it a serious concern for the FBI’s future. This lack of qualifications combined with Patel’s extreme views suggests a potential for significant damage to the agency’s reputation and functionality.

In summary, Trump’s choice of Kash Patel as FBI director exemplifies a broader pattern of prioritizing loyalty over expertise and threatens to undermine the agency’s commitment to justice. As Patel prepares for Senate confirmation, the implications of his potential leadership will likely provoke a critical examination of the FBI’s mission and independence.

(h/t: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna179736)

Trump’s Plan to Undermine Justice Department Highlights Authoritarian Ambitions

Donald Trump has unveiled a disturbing plan to retaliate against the legal system by firing the entire team of special counsel Jack Smith, who has been investigating him. This move, driven by Trump’s desire to shield himself from accountability, showcases his blatant disregard for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. Trump’s transition team is reportedly preparing to replace career attorneys with loyalists who will prioritize his personal interests over justice.

In an alarming escalation of authoritarian tactics, Trump aims to weaponize the Department of Justice against his perceived enemies. He intends to create investigative teams tasked with undermining the integrity of the 2020 election results, perpetuating his unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud. This strategy mirrors the playbook of authoritarian regimes, which often seek to manipulate state institutions for personal gain.

Trump’s attacks on the judiciary and law enforcement reflect a dangerous trend where political leaders undermine democratic institutions. His recent comments labeling judges as ‘evil’ expose his intent to intimidate those who oppose him. Such behavior not only threatens the core principles of democracy but also sets a precedent for future leaders to follow in his authoritarian footsteps.

This blatant attempt to exert control over the Justice Department is not just a personal vendetta; it’s a calculated effort to dismantle checks and balances that are fundamental to a functioning democracy. By fostering an environment of fear and retribution, Trump is encouraging a culture where political loyalty supersedes justice.

As Trump continues to attack the legal system, it is crucial for the American public to recognize these actions as part of a broader authoritarian strategy. The implications of his plans could have devastating effects on the integrity of democratic governance in the United States.

(h/t: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/11/22/trump-jack-smith-prosecutors-firing-justice-department-investigation/?utm_campaign=wp_main&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook)

Trump Threatens to Fire Special Counsel Jack Smith If Elected, Demonstrating His Disregard for Justice

In a recent interview, Donald Trump brazenly declared that if he were to reclaim the presidency, he would expeditiously fire special counsel Jack Smith, asserting he would do so “within two seconds”. This statement underscores Trump’s ongoing attempts to evade accountability for his numerous legal predicaments, including serious charges related to the 2020 election and mishandling classified documents.

Trump’s remarks came as he faced mounting scrutiny from Smith’s investigations, which have already led to significant legal challenges. The former president has routinely labeled Smith as “crooked” and has shown a disturbing inclination to attack judicial figures whenever they threaten his political ambitions or legal standing. His intent to dismiss Smith further illustrates his contempt for the rule of law, positioning his personal interests over justice.

During the interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, Trump was questioned about whether he would prioritize self-pardon or firing Smith. His quick response highlights a strategy focused solely on self-preservation rather than addressing the serious allegations against him. Trump’s history of attempting to undermine investigations into his conduct raises concerns about his respect for lawful governance.

As Trump continues to navigate his legal troubles, he remains steadfast in his belief that he can manipulate the legal system to his advantage. Despite the significant implications of his threats, he expressed confidence that Congress would not pursue impeachment should he act against Smith. This reflects an alarming level of entitlement and disregard for accountability.

Trump’s penchant for praising judges who deliver favorable rulings, such as U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, further complicates the integrity of the judicial process. His selective admiration for judicial figures, juxtaposed with his attacks on others, paints a clear picture of a man willing to exploit the system for his gain. As the 2024 election approaches, it remains to be seen how voters will respond to Trump’s overt attempts to escape justice.

(h/t: https://apnews.com/article/trump-fire-special-counsel-jack-smith-b0d3d24286fbe0c461a901a33ec78d62)

Trump Hints at Iran Link to His 2 Assassination Attempts, Despite the Available Evidence

Former President Donald J. Trump hinted at a potential link between Iran and the two assassination attempts against him, despite officials stating no evidence supports this claim. Intelligence agencies had been monitoring a possible Iranian plot before a gunman targeted Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania and another man attempted to shoot him at a Florida golf course. However, investigations have not found any connection to Iran in these incidents.

During a speech in North Carolina, Trump criticized the FBI for allegedly slow progress in investigating the assassination attempts and suggested Iranian involvement. He also accused the FBI of being too focused on him and individuals arrested for the Capitol attack on January 6, 2021, which he referred to as ‘J6 hostages.’

Despite frequently accusing President Biden of warmongering, Trump claimed he would have threatened military action against Iran if they had made such threats. He stated that as president, he would warn Iran that any harm caused to him would result in severe consequences for the country.

Trump Openly Claims Authority to Direct Attorney General To Investigate Anyone He Wants

President Donald Trump addressed the latest kerfuffle-cum-constitutional crisis in a Friday morning tweet following Attorney General Bill Barr’s apparent intervention in the sentencing of Roger Stone.

Stone was found guilty of seven felony counts last November, including lying to Congress and witness tampering during the investigation into Russian intelligence and interference in the general election. As such, prosecutors recommended a seven to nine-year prison sentence, which Trump criticized vocally. Barr eventually intervened to recommend a lighter sentence, to which Trump tweeted his thanks.

In an interview with ABC News, Barr claimed that he would never be bullied by anyone (including the president) and criticized Trump’s tweets for creating a distraction. It is worth noting that, despite his claims otherwise, Barr appeared to do exactly what Trump had asked, eventually earning Trump’s praise. So that’s the context… still with me?

Ever one to jump on a news cycle, and get ahead of a story, Trump addressed this story obliquely, saying that he has the “legal right” to ask his attorney general to do anything in a criminal case.

“Trump just openly and explicitly stated that it’s perfectly within his authority to direct his Attorney General to open criminal investigations into anyone he wants,” offered Washington Post columnist Greg Sargent, in as a pure expression of what many will see as an open flouting of checks and balances in the U.S. government.

This is the very point made Thursday night on CNN by Jeffrey Toobin following a Washington Post report about this very concept. “The idea [James Comey] committed a crime is absurd. The person in a really perilous condition right now is the CNN contributor Andrew McCabe, who is under investigation from the U.S. Attorney’s office right now. And, you know, has had his case dangling out there. The president obviously wants Andy McCabe prosecuted and it’s just grotesque that you have the President of the United States behaving this way with the power of prosecution exercised in this way.”

The attorney general IS appointed by the president, then confirmed by Congress. And it’s not unusual for the top law enforcement official to work hand in glove with the sitting president. Many might read Trump’s tweet, however, as a rather foreboding omen of what may come to Trump’s political foes.

If he feels that someone has done him wrong, and he can direct the AG to serve as his own personal henchman (of which there is an abundance of evidence) then what is to keep him from seeking investigations into those he feels might threaten his reelection? Oh wait, he’s already done that.

[Mediaite]

Trump pulls nomination of former US attorney in charge of Roger Stone case

President Trump pulled the nomination of a former US attorney who oversaw the prosecution of Roger Stone for a top position in the Treasury Department, according to a report.

The withdrawal of Jessie Liu’s nomination was revealed hours after four federal prosecutors withdrew from the Stone case — when the Justice Department overruled them and said it would seek a more lenient sentence for the longtime Trump ally, Fox News reported late Tuesday.

The prosecutors had been seeking a sentence of up to nine years in prison.

Liu, a former US attorney for Washington, DC, also supervised the case of one-time White House national security adviser Michael Flynn, who was found guilty of lying to the FBI about his contacts with Russian officials while working for the Trump campaign.

She was scheduled to begin her confirmation hearing in the Senate on Thursday.

If confirmed, Liu, 46, would have served as undersecretary for terrorism and financial crimes.

Trump previously had considered nominating her as associate attorney general, the No. 3 slot in the Justice Department, but she withdrew her name last March.

[New York Post]

Trump Says He Has the ‘Absolute Right’ to Tell DOJ What to Do – but Claims He Didn’t in Stone Case Despite Angry Tweet

President Donald Trump says he has the “absolute right” to direct the Dept. of Justice in who and how it prosecutes, but claims that he didn’t, despite his furious tweet overnight attacking the DOJ and calling prosecutors’ sentencing recommendation of Roger Stone a “miscarriage of justice.”

Trump also called the 7 to 9 year recommendation of jail time for Stone, his ally, confidant, and former campaign advisor, an “insult to our country.” Trump often conflates himself and the nation, as if he is the country.

Saying he did not speak to anyone at DOJ Trump then said, “I’d be able to do it if I wanted I have the absolute right to do it.”

Calling the sentencing recommendation “ridiculous” Trump added, “I thought the whole prosecution was ridiculous.”

“That was a horrible abberition,” he concluded, apparently meaning “aberration.”

[New Civil Rights Movement]

Media


DOJ set to lower Stone sentencing recommendation that was criticized by Trump

The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday is reportedly expected to change its sentencing recommendation for Roger Stone a day after telling a federal judge the Trump associate should serve between seven and nine years in prison, guidance that was sharply criticized by President Trump.

Department officials found prosecutors’ initial recommendation “excessive,” according to multiple news outlets, including The Washington Post, Fox News and The Associated Press, citing an anonymous department source.

Reports of the expected change came after Trump denounced the recommended prison term as “horrible and very unfair” in an early Tuesday morning Tweet.  

“The real crimes were on the other side, as nothing happens to them. Cannot allow this miscarriage of justice!” Trump said, sharing a message from a Daily Caller reporter about Stone’s prison sentence.

Stone, a 67 year-old right-wing provocateur, was convicted in November of seven counts of obstructing and lying to Congress and witness tampering related to his efforts to provide the Trump campaign inside information about WikiLeaks in 2016.

Stone is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 20 by D.C. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson, an Obama appointee.

Prosecutors recommended in a Monday filing that Stone serve between 87 and 108 months in prison in accordance with federal guidelines.

“Roger Stone obstructed Congress’s investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, lied under oath, and tampered with a witness,” the DOJ court filing reads. “And when his crimes were revealed by the indictment in this case, he displayed contempt for this Court and the rule of law.”

Department prosecutors wrote that a sentence of up to nine years would “accurately reflect the seriousness of his crimes and promote respect for the law.”

Stone’s attorneys in a Monday night filing asked that the judge impose probation as an alternative to prison.

A Stone lawyer on Tuesday said the legal team had “read with interest” the new reporting on the DOJ’s shifting position.

“Our sentencing memo stated our position on the recommendation made yesterday by the government,” attorney Grant Smith told The Hill. “We look forward to reviewing the government’s supplemental filing.”

The department will reportedly clarify its recommendation on Stone’s sentencing later Tuesday.

[The Hill]

Donald Trump Tells Security to Rough Up a Protester as He is Being Impeached

President Donald Trump attacked his security people as they dragged protesters out of his Michigan rally on Wednesday. Protesters flashed middle fingers as well as a giant banner reading, “Don the Con — you’re fired.”

“She’ll catch hell when she gets back home with mom,” Trump said. “You know, she screams a little bit and you know what I like to do to avoid them. Because I’ll tell you the big problem, I can hardly hear her. What happens is all of you people go, ‘Look, look, look.’ And the place — so there’s one disgusting person who made — wait, wait — who, I wouldn’t say this, but who made a horrible gesture with the wrong finger, right? Now, they won’t say that, the fake news media. They won’t say it. If one of us did that it would be like the biggest story ever.”

“And I’ll tell you another thing,” Trump continued. “I don’t know who the security company is but the police came up, but they want to be so politically correct. So they don’t grab her wrist lightly. Get her out! They say, ‘Oh, will you please come? Please come with me. Sir. Ma’am. Will you — and then she gives the guy the finger. Oh. Oh. You gotta get a little bit stronger than that folks.”

The finger was not for those dragging the protester out of the area, rather it was for Trump.

Trump has been attacked over the past months for refusing to pay for security bills for his campaign. It’s unknown if this security team that Trump attacked Wednesday will get paid.

[Raw Story]

Media

https://www.c-span.org/video/?467146-1/president-trump-speaks-rally-battle-creek-michigan

Trump Claims He’s Heard FBI ‘Lovers’ Had a ‘Restraining Order,’ Admits He Has No Evidence

Not long after Donald Trump took to the stage at a rally in Hershey, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday night, the president launched into one of his biggest crowd-pleasers: pillorying the “deep state,” particularly by performing fan-fic-style dialogue between the “FBI lovers” Lisa Page and Peter Strzok.

It’s a routine that he’s been honing on the re-election campaign trail for months, perhaps most famously during an October campaign event in Minneapolis, where he appeared to make orgasmic, panting noises—much to the audience’s delight—while doing a mock-dialogue between the two “lovers” about how much they “love” each other and hate that “son of a bitch” Trump.

And on Tuesday night, the president went a step further, claiming he’d “heard” gossip about previously unknown relationship woes between the two former FBI employees—though Trump conceded he could just be spreading pure disinformation.

“So FBI lawyer Lisa Page was so in love she didn’t know what the hell was happening,” Trump blared. “Texted the head of counterintelligence Peter Strzok, likewise so in love he couldn’t see straight! This poor guy. Did I hear he needed a restraining order after this whole thing to keep him away from Lisa? That’s what I heard. I don’t know if it’s true. The fake news will never report it, but it could be true.”

After pointing out the reporters gathered in the back so the audience could loudly boo them, the president continued to make the baseless claim that a restraining order was put in place. At the same time, Trump gave a contorted explanation of the alleged restraining order.

“Now that’s what I heard, I don’t know,” he added. “I mean, who could believe a thing like that? No, I heard Peter Strzok needed a restraining order to keep him away from his once lover. Lisa, I hope you miss him. Lisa, he will never be the same.”

It is unclear where, if anywhere, Trump got this. The White House did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment.

A source familiar with Page’s thinking told The Daily Beast on Tuesday night that Trump’s allegation is “absolutely untrue.”

On Wednesday morning, Page took to Twitter herself, saying “This is a lie. Nothing like this ever happened. I wish we had a president who knew how to act like one. SAD!”

Both Page and Strzok have become prominent bêtes noires for MAGA fans and Trumpworld, due to their illicit affair and the text messages they exchanged bashing Trump and discussing an “insurance policy” in the event the 2016 Republican nominee actually won against Democratic rival Hillary Clinton.

In an interview with The Daily Beast published this month, Page explained why she was choosing to publicly speak out now, stating: “Honestly, his demeaning fake orgasm was really the straw that broke the camel’s back.”

“I had stayed quiet for years hoping it would fade away, but instead it got worse,” she said, adding that “it had been so hard not to defend myself, to let people who hate me control the narrative. I decided to take my power back.”

Additionally, news broke earlier Tuesday that the former FBI attorney had sued the FBI and Department of Justice. “I take little joy in having done so. But what they did in leaking my messages to the press was not only wrong, it was illegal,” she alleged on Twitter.

[The Daily Beast]

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