With Donald Trump’s potential return to the presidency looming, senior officials at the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are reportedly preparing for a wave of legal scrutiny. According to NBC News, a number of these high-ranking officials have already begun securing criminal defense attorneys, anticipating investigations into their actions during Trump’s first term and beyond.
The tension within the DOJ and FBI is palpable. Trump’s previous administration frequently clashed with these institutions, accusing them of corruption and political bias. Now, as speculation mounts over who might serve in Trump’s next cabinet— with names like Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz floated for attorney general— some within these agencies are bracing for a potential reckoning.
A former FBI official, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted to NBC News that he has already sought legal counsel. “Everything we did was aboveboard,” the official maintained. However, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of a Trump-led DOJ. “This is a different world,” he said, highlighting the burden of potentially facing baseless yet costly legal battles.
The fear is not unfounded. During his campaign, Trump frequently referred to the DOJ as a “cesspool of corruption” and vowed to clean house. His supporters have long called for accountability, believing that officials within the DOJ and FBI actively worked to undermine his presidency.
BREAKING: DOJ & FBI operatives are in total panic mode lawyering up preparing for Trump’s incoming admin that will be seeking to bring deep state criminals to justice pic.twitter.com/6JVkhl82RT
— Drew Hernandez (@DrewHLive) November 18, 2024
Adding to the tension, reports have emerged of emotional reactions within the DOJ following Trump’s victory. Attorney General Merrick Garland was reportedly “shocked” by the election results, while other officials were described as “weeping” over the public’s rejection of their narrative.
While specific charges against DOJ and FBI officials have not yet been outlined, many speculate that Trump’s administration will focus on alleged misconduct, particularly efforts to undermine him during his first term. The appointment of a figure like Gaetz, known for his staunch support of Trump and criticism of federal agencies, would signal a hardline approach.
Mike Davis, a prominent conservative legal activist, recently warned Special Counsel Jack Smith—who led investigations into Trump—to “lawyer up.” Davis accused Smith of engaging in a “criminal conspiracy” against Trump, calling for legal consequences.
Dear Jack Smith:
Lawyer up.
— 🇺🇸 Mike Davis 🇺🇸 (@mrddmia) November 6, 2024
Attorney Mark Paoletta, another Trump ally, has also weighed in, arguing that Trump has a duty to hold corrupt officials accountable. “No president should ever use the awesome prosecutorial powers of the United States government to pursue someone simply because they are a political opponent or for personal vendetta reasons,” Paoletta stated. “Whether friend or foe, no one is above the law.”
🧵CNN reporter is wrong both constitutionally & historically. She claims DOJ “technically has operated historically as an independent entity.” Constitution vests our ELECTED President with ALL executive power, including DOJ. He has the duty to supervise DOJ, including, if… pic.twitter.com/amoMdDFtP5
— Mark Paoletta (@MarkPaoletta) November 7, 2024
Trump’s supporters believe his second term will focus on exposing and addressing what they see as systemic corruption within the DOJ and FBI. For these officials, the fear is not just about potential legal battles but the broader implications of losing their grip on powerful institutions.
The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s return has created a climate of apprehension within federal law enforcement and the legal community. For many at the DOJ and FBI, the stakes are higher than ever. The possibility of facing criminal charges, navigating public trials, and enduring years of legal battles has led to a scramble for legal representation.
Trump has not yet detailed specific plans for investigating DOJ and FBI officials, but his rhetoric and the actions of his allies make it clear that accountability will be a central theme of his administration.
For those who acted in ways perceived as biased or overreaching during Trump’s first term, the writing on the wall is clear: the era of unchecked power within these institutions may be coming to an end.
In the meantime, Trump’s critics within the DOJ and FBI must confront an unsettling reality. Their actions, once shielded by institutional authority, may now be subject to the full weight of legal scrutiny. Whether this leads to genuine reform or simply more partisan battles remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the fight for control of America’s most powerful agencies is far from over.
The swamp was warned. Now, the reckoning begins.
