Frustration With Federal Prosecutors
Trump’s outburst followed the resignation of Erik Siebert, a former US attorney from Virginia, who reportedly concluded there was insufficient evidence to pursue fraud charges against Letitia James. Trump accused Siebert of downplaying the strength of the case, insisting there was a “GREAT CASE” against the New York attorney general, who previously led a major civil lawsuit against his businesses.
The president hinted at appointing close ally Lindsey Halligan, once his personal lawyer and now a White House aide, to oversee the probes. Halligan has been engaged in reviewing cultural materials at US museums to align them with Trump’s political vision. While Trump suggested nominating her, it remains unclear whether Bondi would install Halligan in an interim prosecutorial role.
Direct Appeal to Bondi
The appeal was notable for its public and personal tone. Trump linked his grievances over his own legal troubles — including two impeachments and multiple indictments — to his call for immediate prosecutions of Schiff, Comey, and James. He stressed that swift decisions, guilty or not, were essential for restoring credibility.
Speaking to reporters, Trump clarified that his message was not an attack on Bondi but a plea for urgent action. “One way or the other. They’re guilty, they’re not guilty. We have to act fast,” he said. “If they’re not guilty, that’s fine. If they are guilty, they should be judged. And we have to do it now.”
Political History With Rivals
Trump’s animosity toward the three officials stretches back years. He fired James Comey in 2017 while facing scrutiny over Russian interference in the 2016 election. Adam Schiff, as chair of the House Intelligence Committee, led the impeachment inquiry over Trump’s pressure campaign on Ukraine. Meanwhile, Letitia James pursued a civil fraud case against Trump’s business empire, culminating in a significant financial judgment.
The Justice Department has not issued any comment on Trump’s latest demand. Bondi recently elevated prosecutor Mary “Maggie” Cleary to serve as acting US attorney after Siebert’s departure, though questions remain about the direction of the investigations.
Broader Legal Context
Trump himself has faced five indictments since leaving office, including charges related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election, mishandling classified documents, and hush money payments. While some cases were dropped following his 2024 election victory, a New York jury found him guilty of 34 felony counts in the hush money trial.
The Georgia election interference case, another major legal challenge, remains tied up in pretrial disputes. Critics argue that Trump’s latest intervention reflects an attempt to politicize the Justice Department and redirect focus from his own legal battles.
