Justice Department Employees Speak Out: A Wave of Resignations and Fires
A significant number of employees are leaving the Justice Department. The departures include resignations, firings, and retirements, totaling over 5,000 since January. Justice Connection is collecting and sharing farewell messages from these employees.
Insights from Farewell Messages
The messages reveal a mix of concerns, praises, and reflections:
- Fear and Concern: Some employees express apprehension about the department's future.
- Praise and Gratitude: Others commend their colleagues and the work they've done.
- High-Profile Leaders: Many messages come from prominent leaders worried about the department's direction.
Notable Messages
Maurene Comey
A former prosecutor, Comey warned about the use of fear as a control tool. She urged colleagues not to let fear impede their duties and sued the Trump administration over her alleged illegal and unconstitutional firing.
Hagan Scotten
Scotten resigned after the Justice Department dropped a case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. He criticized the decision, stating he would never file a motion he didn't believe in.
Patty Hartman
Fired from her communications role, Hartman shared her message to clear her name. She acknowledged her illegal termination and expressed frustration over similar experiences faced by others.
Michael Romano
A prosecutor working on January 6 cases, Romano resigned in March. He emphasized the importance of the rule of law and stood by the work done by his colleagues.
Meredith Burrell
A former civil rights office attorney, Burrell contrasted her 25 years of service with the last four months. She discussed the responsibility of using federal power to protect marginalized people.
Positive Messages
- Greg Rosen: Praised colleagues and Capitol protectors.
- Sybil Barksdale: Spoke about her dedication to justice and protecting the vulnerable.
- Anonymous FBI Analyst: Advocated for speaking up against wrongdoing, even if it means saying "no."
