Politics Weekly America ‘Armed agents nearly turned up at my house’: fired DOJ attorney on defying Trump
May 1, 2025
Liz Oyer, a former pardon attorney at the U.S. Justice Department, shares her gripping story of being fired after refusing to reinstate Mel Gibson’s gun rights. She discusses the broader implications of the Trump administration on the rule of law, detailing how political pressures have undermined judicial independence. Oyer also emphasizes the ethical dilemmas within the DOJ and the alarming trend of politicization in the clemency process. Her firsthand experience sheds light on the precarious state of justice in America.
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Liz Oyer's Mel Gibson Pardon Refusal
- Liz Oyer was tasked with recommending the restoration of Mel Gibson's gun rights but refused due to his domestic violence conviction.
- After refusing to comply, she was abruptly fired and escorted out of the Department of Justice by security officers.
Intimidation Before Congressional Testimony
- Before a Congressional hearing, armed U.S. marshals were sent to Liz Oyer's home to deliver a warning letter.
- This was seen as an intimidation tactic to discourage her truthful testimony.
DOJ Subordination Threatens Rule of Law
- The Trump administration views DOJ as subordinate to the president's political agenda over rule of law.
- This leads to targeting officials and law firms opposing the president, threatening judicial independence.