Absolute Power: Politization and Weaponization at the DOJ (With Gary Restaino)

Our founders wanted US attorneys to retain significant independence from the Department of Justice.  If that happens, then experienced prosecutors have the credibility and moral fortitude to serve as a buffer between the unfettered power of the government and the people.  

But the Trump administration wants absolute power. That’s why we’re seeing a slew of illegal US attorney appointments, mass resignations, installation of outsiders with zero prosecutorial experience, and the prosecutions of Trump’s political enemies.  Absolute power corrupts absolutely and nowhere is that more apparent than the recent arrest of journalist Don Lemon.  

Therefore the public needs to see this for what it is–  the canary in the coal mine signaling America’s rapid descent into authoritarian rule.  More importantly, attorneys need to do more to implore courts to curb these blatant abuses of power. 

This is a 2-part episode.  During the first hour, we talk with Gary Restaino, the former US Attorney for the District of Arizona.  He gives his take on why this is not normal and why it matters. 

In part two, we speak with communications expert, Dr. Randy Olson, who implores us to cut through “the information maelstrom” with clear communication. But that’s not easy, particularly when there’s so much happening all at once (Steve Bannon’s “flood the zone with shit” strategy).  Therefore, Dr. Olson provides valuable guidance on how lawyers can better communicate the truth of the urgency of now.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• The need for “insiders” i.e. experienced prosecutors who understand criminal litigation;
• Over-politization and weaponization in the current DOJ;
• The prosecution of Don Lemon;
• Challenging the prosecutors’ grand jury presentations;
• The Trump takeover of individual US Atty offices; 
• The danger of unchecked paramilitary forces on city streets;
• What are laypeople and lawyers can do to combat ongoing and blatant abuses of power. 

LINKS: 

Gary Restaino on LinkedIn – His posts present a powerful perspective from someone who had a front row seat to how a local US attorney office should be run:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-restaino-a27290370

Terrifying Abuses of Power:

https://www.politico.com/news/2026/01/23/abuse-of-power-new-jersey-prosecutors-office-00745493

Check out this episode!

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