On with Kara Swisher From “Witch Hunt” to “Weaponization”: The Impact of Trump’s War on the DOJ with David Rohde
Sep 23, 2024
David Rohde, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and NBC News senior executive editor, dives into the ramifications of Donald Trump's war on the DOJ and FBI. He discusses how Trump's narrative of 'witch hunts' has eroded trust in these institutions, the challenges facing Attorney General Merrick Garland, and the implications of hyper-partisanship in American democracy. Rohde also explores the impact of conspiracy theories on public perception and the need for a nonpartisan approach to maintain the integrity of law enforcement in turbulent political times.
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Mar-a-Lago Raid Hesitation
- DOJ and FBI officials met to discuss retrieving classified documents from Trump.
- The meeting highlighted the agencies' hyper-partisanship and caution.
Trump's Loyalty Demands
- Trump demanded loyalty to himself, not the office or Constitution.
- Firing Comey showed Trump could defy norms without significant political cost.
Barr's Role
- Bill Barr, as Attorney General, acted as Trump's "sword and shield."
- Barr distorted the Mueller report's findings to favor Trump, winning the messaging war.
