The Culture War Warrior: How Andrew Bailey's Missouri AG Role Paved the Way for FBI Leadership
In a small St. Louis suburb, a disturbing incident unfolded in March 2024. A white student was badly injured in a fight with a Black student at an elementary school. The aftermath of this altercation would spark a controversy that would reverberate across the state and eventually propel Andrew Bailey to the national stage.
Bailey, then Missouri's Attorney General, seized on the incident as an opportunity to score culture war points. He publicly blamed the school district for creating "unsafe conditions," despite evidence suggesting the fight occurred after class hours. This move was characteristic of Bailey's tenure as AG – a period marked by aggressive stances on issues like gender, schools, and diversity.
Bailey's nearly three-year term as Missouri's top lawyer was a masterclass in leveraging controversy to boost his profile. He frequently used the office to wage a culture war, often targeting progressive values and institutions. His actions drew criticism from legal observers, who saw him prioritizing politics over justice.
But Bailey's tactics resonated with some voters in Missouri's Republican primaries. They consistently rewarded hard-charging attorney general candidates like Bailey, who promised to take on perceived threats to traditional values. This dynamic has contributed to a national trend where politicians increasingly use the Attorney General role as a springboard for higher office.
Bailey's ascension to co-deputy director of the FBI is the latest chapter in this story. His appointment has raised eyebrows among some observers, who question whether his background and approach are suitable for a law enforcement agency tasked with upholding justice and protecting civil rights.
A Culture War Legacy
Bailey's tenure as AG was marked by high-profile fights over issues like school bathrooms, drag shows, and diversity training. He often framed these battles as part of a broader struggle against "woke" ideology, which he claimed was eroding traditional values.
Critics argue that Bailey's actions were less about protecting the public interest than about advancing his own career. His aggressive stances on culture war issues helped him build a reputation as a fearless champion of conservative causes – one that would eventually propel him to national prominence.
A Global Context
Bailey's approach to the Attorney General role is not unique in the global context. In many countries, politicians have used law enforcement agencies as tools for advancing their own agendas and ideologies. This phenomenon has been observed in places like Hungary, Poland, and Brazil, where governments have increasingly politicized law enforcement institutions.
In these contexts, the line between politics and justice becomes blurred. Politicians often use their power to silence critics, suppress dissent, and advance their own interests – all while claiming to uphold the rule of law.
Multiple Perspectives
We spoke with several experts and observers who offered insights into Bailey's tenure as AG and his appointment to the FBI.
"Bailey's approach was a perfect example of how politicians can use the Attorney General role to further their own careers," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a professor of politics at Washington University in St. Louis. "He used his platform to advance a culture war agenda that resonated with some voters but alienated others."
Others saw Bailey's actions as part of a broader trend.
"The politicization of law enforcement agencies is a global phenomenon," said Dr. Mark Miller, a criminologist at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. "It's a concern because it undermines trust in institutions and erodes the rule of law."
Conclusion
Andrew Bailey's journey from Missouri AG to co-deputy director of the FBI is a complex story that raises important questions about the role of politics in law enforcement. As we navigate this global landscape, it's essential to consider the implications of politicizing justice and the impact on our institutions.
Bailey's tenure as AG was marked by controversy and polarization – traits that have become increasingly common in national politics. His appointment to the FBI has sparked concerns about whether his background is suitable for a law enforcement agency tasked with upholding justice and protecting civil rights.
As we look to the future, it's essential to remember that the rule of law must be above politics. The consequences of allowing politicians to wield power over institutions like the FBI can have far-reaching and devastating effects on our democracy.
*Based on reporting by Propublica.*
