Former White House lawyer says Trump will not use DOJ ‘for political purposes,’ but to implement ‘his agenda’

Former White House attorney Mark Paoletta recently took to social media to clarify that President-elect Donald Trump will not be using the Department of Justice (DOJ) for political purposes, but rather for implementing his agenda. Paoletta, who has previously served in key roles within the Trump administration, emphasized the importance of the President’s authority to supervise the DOJ in order to ensure that it aligns with his priorities.

In response to a CNN reporter’s statement about the DOJ historically operating as an independent entity, Paoletta highlighted that the Constitution vests all executive power in the elected President, including oversight of the DOJ. He referenced Chief Justice John Roberts’ opinion in Trump v. United States, affirming the President’s authority to direct the DOJ on specific cases and ensure that it is working towards his goals.

Paoletta outlined potential actions that Trump could take using the DOJ in his next term, such as increasing resources for prosecuting criminals and enforcing federal law against sanctuary cities. Despite these measures, Paoletta made it clear that Trump’s use of the DOJ would not be driven by political motives, but rather by the mandate of the American people who supported his agenda in the election.

In contrast, Paoletta criticized Democrats for targeting Trump solely because he was a political opponent, accusing them of manufacturing charges and abusing their power to undermine him. He emphasized that the President has a duty to direct the DOJ in line with his agenda, which reflects the will of the majority of voters.

The DOJ recently announced its intention to wind down two federal criminal cases against Trump ahead of his second term, citing a legal memo that prohibits investigations into sitting presidents. Trump has also faced state-level prosecutions, alongside federal cases brought by special counsel Jack Smith, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

In conclusion, Paoletta’s remarks underscore the importance of the President’s role in supervising the DOJ and ensuring that it serves the interests of the American people. While Trump will use the DOJ to advance his agenda, it will not be for political purposes but to uphold the rule of law and implement policies supported by the electorate.