Justice Department’s Changing Policies Under Trump
Major Changes in Anti-Corruption Efforts
The U.S. Justice Department has made big changes under President Donald Trump. These changes include reducing efforts to stop corruption and dropping some legal cases. Many experts believe this is a break from past practices.
- The Justice Department has reduced enforcement of laws that stop companies from paying bribes to foreign officials.
- Prosecutors were told to drop a criminal case against New York Mayor Eric Adams.
- A special team that monitored Russian oligarchs has been shut down.
- Several experienced corruption prosecutors have been removed.
Foreign Bribery Law Enforcement Paused
One major decision by Trump was to pause the enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. This law prevents American companies from paying bribes in other countries.
- Trump believes the law makes U.S. businesses weaker compared to foreign competitors.
- This law has led to major criminal cases against companies over the last 15 years.
- Many political leaders, including Senator Chuck Grassley, are worried about this decision.
- Ethics experts say this could increase corruption in international trade.
Case Dropped Against Mayor Eric Adams
Federal prosecutors were ordered to drop a corruption case against New York Mayor Eric Adams. This has raised concerns about political influence in legal cases.
- Adams was accused of fraud and bribery linked to Turkish officials.
- Officials say the case was dropped to help Adams focus on his re-election campaign.
- Some believe this move shows favoritism toward political allies.
- Former Justice Department officials warn this damages the legal system’s credibility.
Ethics Officials Removed
The Trump administration has also removed several ethics officials, making many people concerned about government transparency.
- More than 17 independent watchdogs were fired.
- The head of the Office of Government Ethics was removed.
- The Justice Department’s Public Integrity Section head resigned after being reassigned.
- Ethics experts believe these changes weaken government oversight and accountability.
Impact on U.S. Legal System
These changes have led many legal experts to worry about the future of justice in the U.S.
- Many believe the Justice Department is being used for political gain.
- Former officials say Trump’s decisions could encourage corruption.
- Some worry that removing anti-corruption measures will make it harder to hold powerful people accountable.
- Ethics experts fear that without strong laws, corruption could become more common.
By weakening anti-corruption laws, removing key officials, and dropping legal cases, Trump’s administration is changing the way the U.S. justice system works. Many experts believe these changes could have long-term effects on legal fairness and government transparency.
