On MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) expressed serious concerns about the possibility of President-elect Donald Trump using the Department of Justice to target his political opponents. Goldman likened such actions to practices of a “banana republic,” arguing that they threaten the rule of law and the credibility of the U.S. justice system.
He warned that politicizing prosecutions undermines trust in institutions and opens the door for widespread claims of politically motivated legal actions.
Goldman highlighted Trump’s history of undermining institutional integrity, pointing to his selection of key figures like Kash Patel as evidence of this pattern. He argued that Patel’s potential confirmation to a DOJ role could facilitate Trump’s efforts to jail political adversaries.
According to Goldman, this strategy goes beyond harming individual opponents—it endangers the broader political and legal system, eroding foundational democratic norms.
Dan Goldman Warns Against Politicized DOJ Under Trump, Citing Threats to Democracy
When asked whether he himself might be targeted by a Trump administration, Goldman acknowledged the possibility due to his role as lead counsel in Trump’s first impeachment trial. While recognizing the risks, he welcomed the challenge, declaring his readiness to defend himself.
Goldman emphasized his unique position as a member of Congress, which affords him protections like the speech and debate clause, and expressed willingness to stand up against potential retaliation.
However, Goldman’s greatest concern lay with federal employees who lack his level of visibility and protection. He called attention to the vulnerability of career public servants who, while simply doing their jobs, could become victims of political retribution under a politicized DOJ. He underscored the importance of safeguarding these individuals from unwarranted persecution.
Ultimately, Goldman used his platform to stress the broader implications of Trump’s approach to governance. He framed this issue as a test of America’s commitment to democratic principles, warning that unchecked political retaliation would have far-reaching consequences for the country’s justice system and political stability.
