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By Gabe Whisnant
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President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that he directed the Justice Department (DOJ) to dismiss all remaining U.S. attorneys from former President Joe Biden's era, claiming unprecedented politicization.
The president posted on Truth Social, "Over the past four years, the Department of Justice has been politicized like never before. Therefore, I have instructed the termination of ALL remaining 'Biden Era' U.S. Attorneys. We must 'clean house' IMMEDIATELY, and restore confidence. America's Golden Age must have a fair Justice System - THAT BEGINS TODAY!"
Newsweek has reached out to the DOJ for comment on Tuesday night via its website.
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Why It Matters
While it is standard for U.S. attorneys to resign following a change in administration, Justice Department lawyers—both current and former—note that incoming administrations typically request resignations rather than issuing abrupt termination letters, according to reporting by Reuters.
What To Know
Trump campaigned on a promise to end what he calls the Justice Department's "weaponization," claiming it was used against him during his years out of power.
Last week, the White House issued termination notices to multiple U.S. attorneys appointed by former Democratic President Joe Biden.
On Monday, several Biden-appointed U.S. attorneys announced their resignations, while others had already left the government the previous week.
The dismissal of U.S. attorneys, who serve as the top federal law enforcement officials in their districts, marks the latest upheaval at the Justice Department since Trump took office last month.
While career Justice Department officials typically remain in their roles across administrations, dozens in cities like Washington and New York have either resigned or been fired since Trump's inauguration.
Trump critics have continued to raise concerns about recent actions by the DOJ, including Attorney General Pam Bondi issuing a directive to review the federal prosecution of Trump as part of a broader initiative to overhaul the DOJ, which Trump has long claimed is biased against conservatives.
What People Are Saying
An email sent from the White House to Biden's remaining U.S. attorneys last week read: "At the direction of President Donald J. Trump, I am writing to inform you that your position as U.S. Attorney is terminated, effective immediately," Reuters news agency reported.
In response, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, Erek Barron, sent out an office-wide farewell email in which he wrote: "As many of you may know by now, my time with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Maryland has come to an end. It has been an honor to lead such a talented and dedicated team."
What Happens Next
Trump is replacing U.S. attorneys across the country with his own nominees, which will have to be approved by the Senate.
Update: 2/18/25, 7:01 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
Update: 2/18/25, 7:18 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.
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