Trump's Justice Department Ultimatum Sparks Widespread Unease Among Government Attorneys

Unease Grows at Justice Department as Trump's Threats Get More Blunt September 22, 2025, was a day that left many government attorneys in the United States shaken. President Donald Trump had taken to social media to direct the Justice Department to pursue criminal investigations against his most prominent critics, including former FBI Director James Comey. According to sources within the department, Trump's weekend update stopped many in their tracks. "We can't delay any longer, it's killing our reputation and credibility," he wrote on Twitter. The president's message was clear: he wanted justice served, and he expected the Justice Department to deliver. The move has sparked unease among government attorneys, who are now grappling with the implications of Trump's directive. "It's a very difficult situation for us," said one attorney, who wished to remain anonymous. "We're trying to do our jobs, but we're also being told to pursue investigations that seem politically motivated." The Justice Department has long been seen as an independent entity, separate from the White House and beholden only to the law. But Trump's actions have raised questions about the department's independence and its ability to operate free from political interference. "This is a very concerning development," said Michael Bromwich, a former assistant director at the FBI. "The Justice Department should be focused on upholding the law, not on pursuing investigations that are driven by politics." Bromwich noted that Trump's directive has created a sense of uncertainty among government attorneys, who are now wondering if they will be targeted for their work. "It's a very difficult time to be working in the Justice Department," he said. The move also raises questions about the impact on the department's morale and its ability to effectively carry out its duties. "When you're told that your job is at risk because of your work, it creates a sense of fear and anxiety," said one attorney. "It's not just about the individual; it's about the entire department." The Justice Department has yet to comment on Trump's directive or the impact it may have on its operations. However, sources within the department say that officials are working to reassure employees that their jobs are safe. As the situation continues to unfold, many are left wondering what this means for the future of the Justice Department and its ability to operate independently. "This is a very concerning development," said Bromwich. "We need to ensure that the Justice Department remains independent and free from political interference." In the meantime, government attorneys will continue to grapple with the implications of Trump's directive, wondering if they will be next on the list for investigation. Background: The Justice Department has long been seen as an independent entity, separate from the White House and beholden only to the law. However, Trump's actions have raised questions about the department's independence and its ability to operate free from political interference. Additional Perspectives: Michael Bromwich, a former assistant director at the FBI, noted that Trump's directive has created a sense of uncertainty among government attorneys, who are now wondering if they will be targeted for their work. "It's a very difficult time to be working in the Justice Department," he said. A spokesperson for the American Bar Association expressed concern about the impact on the department's morale and its ability to effectively carry out its duties. "When you're told that your job is at risk because of your work, it creates a sense of fear and anxiety," they said. Current Status: The Justice Department has yet to comment on Trump's directive or the impact it may have on its operations. However, sources within the department say that officials are working to reassure employees that their jobs are safe. Next Developments: As the situation continues to unfold, many are left wondering what this means for the future of the Justice Department and its ability to operate independently. The department will continue to grapple with the implications of Trump's directive, while also working to reassure employees that their jobs are safe. *Reporting by Npr.*