Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri has called for President-elect Donald Trump to prioritize firing Justice Department staff involved in prosecuting cases against him. Speaking on NBC’s Meet the Press, Schmitt criticized these cases as politically motivated attempts to undermine Trump, asserting that those responsible for these actions should face consequences.
His comments follow the decision by special counsel Jack Smith to request a pause in one of the cases against Trump, signaling a potential winding down of the legal battles as Trump prepares to take office.
Schmitt framed his demand as a call for accountability, arguing that the cases against Trump collapsed under legal scrutiny and were emblematic of abuses within the Justice Department.
He emphasized the need to refocus the department on addressing crime rather than engaging in politically driven investigations. Trump has echoed similar sentiments during his campaign, vowing to hold those he deems responsible for alleged misconduct accountable, including special counsel Smith and others.
Eric Schmitt Calls on Trump to Remove Justice Department Officials Behind Prosecution Cases Against Him
Throughout his campaign, Trump frequently criticized the Justice Department, promising to overhaul its leadership and operations if elected.
He pledged to pardon individuals charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot and suggested he would use the department to investigate and prosecute his political adversaries. Trump’s rhetoric included sharp rebukes of Smith, whom he accused of election interference and prosecutorial misconduct, and promises to pursue legal action against those involved in efforts to oppose him.
Schmitt expressed support for Trump’s proposed nominee for attorney general, former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi. Describing her as a friend and capable leader, Schmitt committed to securing her confirmation.
Bondi’s nomination follows the withdrawal of former Rep. Matt Gaetz from consideration. Other Republicans, such as Senator James Lankford, emphasized the importance of ensuring the Justice Department focuses on reducing crime rather than advancing partisan agendas under new leadership.
As Trump prepares for his return to office, these developments highlight ongoing tensions between his administration and the Justice Department.
His pledges to reshape the department, combined with calls from allies like Schmitt for retribution against those involved in past investigations, underscore the contentious political environment shaping his new term. Republican leaders remain divided on how these changes might unfold and whether they will further politicize the department or restore its focus on crime-fighting.
