Talking Feds Halligan, Bondi, and Other Turkeys
20 snips
Nov 27, 2025 
Anna Bauer, a Lawfare senior editor and DOJ expert, joins Paul Fishman, former U.S. Attorney, and Amy Jeffress, ex-federal prosecutor, to discuss the turmoil within the Department of Justice. They delve into the fallout from the dismissal of high-profile prosecutions involving James Comey and Letitia James. The trio also examines Pam Bondi's potential role in protecting Trump's interests with the Epstein files, alongside the ethical complexities of grand jury practices and the ongoing cultural challenges facing the DOJ amid mass staff departures.
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Appointment Error Created Legal Nullity
- The Halligan appointments exposed a politicized and bungled DOJ prosecutorial effort.
- Judge Curry's ruling created a legal nullity that may permanently bar rebrought charges against Comey unless reversed.
Different Legal Fates For The Two Indictments
- Amy Jeffress explained Comey's indictment is likely unrebringable because the judge treated the prior filing as never valid.
- Letitia James's indictment may be rebrought because her statute of limitations had not yet run.
Follow Appointment Rules Rigorously
- DOJ should follow established appointment and supervisory policies to avoid fatal procedural mistakes.
- Use special-appointment statutes or proper nomination routes rather than ad hoc shortcuts.
