According to PJ Media, a covert operation among Democratic insiders to potentially replace President Joe Biden for the 2024 election has come to light.
Concerns over Biden’s health have prompted party leaders to explore backup plans for the nomination process.
The Daily Mail recently reported that there is growing unease within the Democratic Party regarding Joe Biden's health. According to sources, the president’s fitness for office has been increasingly questioned after a series of public incidents.
On the 80th anniversary of D-Day, President Biden appeared momentarily disoriented during a greeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, which has fueled speculation about his declining health.
Former President Barack Obama seemingly assisted Biden off the stage during a fundraiser in Los Angeles on June 15, further stoking fears among Democrats.
Two days later, at a White House Juneteenth celebration, Biden stood frozen with a blank stare, requiring guidance to leave the podium. These events have only intensified concerns about his mental capacities.
Despite these occurrences, White House spokesperson Andrew Bates assured the media that the president’s health is not in question, referring specifically to the Juneteenth event. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s spokesperson echoed this sentiment, asserting her "full confidence in President Biden."
Still, insiders from recent White House meetings have indicated that there is a genuine worry about Biden’s mental acuity among several officials. A Democratic strategist disclosed to The Daily Mail that critical party leaders—Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer—might need to collectively act if Biden's performance continues to decline.
One proposed solution involves the Democratic National Committee (DNC) holding a virtual convention to control the nominee selection process, providing a structured approach to potentially replace Biden. While this plan is prudent, it carries inherent risks.
In the event of a nomination change, a new system would be implemented to introduce a substitute candidate. A party strategist emphasized that Vice President Kamala Harris, who has low popularity ratings, is not expected to be the replacement nominee.
Moreover, any new nominee would require Biden’s endorsement alongside senior Democratic leaders to maintain party unity. Kamala Harris, who seeks to remain on the ticket, may oppose this replacement scheme.
The strategy poses significant risks: if Biden withdraws, it could split the Democratic base, and a Trump presidency could lead to substantial blame on the new nominee and their supporters. Democratic officials must balance ensuring leadership continuity with addressing concerns about Biden's health while emphasizing party stability amidst rising tensions and public scrutiny.
In conclusion, President Joe Biden’s recent health scares have triggered concerns among Democratic insiders, prompting covert contingency plans for the 2024 elections. Strategic replacements and party-wide endorsements are being discreetly considered amidst broader political risks and challenges to unity if a new nominee is announced.
Howie Mandel recently shared a shocking story about his wife Terry's fall due to marijuana gummies, not alcohol.
In a candid conversation on "LIVE with Kelly and Mark," Howie Mandel discussed the incident involving his wife, Terry. After consuming some marijuana gummies, Terry experienced intoxication, which led to a fall in their room at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Fox News reported that despite initial confusion, Terry Mandel has fully recovered from her Las Vegas hotel room accident.
Howie and Terry Mandel have been married for 40 years. On the night of the accident, Terry woke up in the middle of the night and fell, hitting her head. Howie described it as a scary moment and tried to help using what was available.
Howie explained his immediate reaction to the show. He used cans of soda to try to alleviate her head injury. "I put her on the bed and I tried to give her ice, but I didn't have ice, and I gave her cans of soda to put on her head," Howie recalled.
Hotel security, responding to a mess and bloodied scene, suspected domestic violence. Howie shared, "They've got me against the TV. My wife is covered in blood all over the bed. There's cans that have been thrown across the room."
Security detained Howie and questioned both of them. Despite the confusion, the situation was eventually cleared up. Terry and Howie explained the real cause of the mess.
Howie remembered the questions from security, "They had me leave the room and they asked her, ‘What happened?’ And she kept saying, 'I don't know.' And I said, 'Don't say you don't know!'
Terry was taken to the hospital, where she was treated and eventually recovered without any permanent injuries. "She is absolutely perfect. There is not a scar. She is beautiful," Howie proudly stated.
After their return to the hotel, Terry found humor in the situation. "We got back to the hotel, and she's opening the door to the room. We're going back in the room. Another couple is coming out and going out for breakfast, and she goes, 'Howie, I promise I'll be a good girl.'"
Despite the seriousness of the night, Terry's lighthearted approach helped ease the tension. However, Howie did not find the joke amusing at first, reinforcing the night's stressful events.
Howie and Terry Mandel's experience serves as a cautionary tale about the impacts of marijuana gummies. Howie emphasized, "First of all, she wasn't drunk. She doesn't have an alcohol problem. I'm going to tell you the truth. She took gummies."
Reflecting on the night's events, Howie stressed the importance of caution when using such substances. He recounted advice from Harvey Levin, "I think the lesson here is — and everybody does this, and especially in Vegas — if you've been drinking or smoking or taking gummies, you get up in the middle of the night and you think that you can walk across the room without turning on the light. No, turn on the light."
Howie Mandel's revelation about his wife Terry's accident highlights the risks associated with marijuana gummies. Although security initially misunderstood the situation as domestic violence, the truth eventually emerged. Terry recovered fully and even found humor in the incident afterward. The story serves as a reminder to exercise caution and take marriage's challenges in stride.
Due to his age and recent public missteps, speculation is growing about President Joe Biden's ability to seek re-election in 2024.
According to Daily Mail, some Democratic strategists are considering replacing Biden with a new nominee if his performance does not improve, though doing so carries significant risks.
Recently, former President Barack Obama was seen guiding President Joe Biden off the stage at a Los Angeles fundraiser, raising eyebrows. Just days later, Biden stood motionless for a full minute during a Juneteenth celebration at the White House, needing aid from Philonise Floyd. These incidents have intensified the ongoing debate about Biden's fitness to run for another term.
A White House spokesperson, Andrew Bates, dismissed the video showing Biden freezing during the Juneteenth event as a "cheap fake memo." Despite this, concerns about the president's age and overall condition persist within the Democratic Party and among voters.
Nate Silver, a political analyst, highlighted Biden's average approval rating of 37.4%, pointing out that voter concern about Biden's age is significant. Commenting on Biden's prospects, Silver noted that dropping out poses a risk, but continuing to run under poor performance could be an even greater risk.
Mark Leibovich referred to Biden as "Ruth Bader Biden," indicating unease about Biden pursuing another term. Longtime Democratic strategist James Carville voiced his opinion, saying Biden should not have sought re-election in the first place.
Biden's team, encouraged by political consultant David Axelrod, has arranged an early presidential debate on June 27 on CNN to address growing concerns. This event is seen as a crucial opportunity for Biden to quash doubts about his capabilities. Mark Penn and other insiders believe this debate could be Biden's last chance to demonstrate his readiness for another term.
If Biden falters during the debate, top Democratic leaders, including Obama, Bill Clinton, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, may need to present a coordinated effort to urge Biden to step down. A Democratic strategist compared the difficulty of replacing Biden to maneuvering a large and troubled container ship.
A seasoned political commentator, Joe Klein, speculated that a dynamic, young candidate could capture the electorate's favor with a compelling convention speech. However, some blunt remarks from inside the party indicated that Vice President Kamala Harris would not be the default replacement. One consultant remarked that Harris would only become the nominee if Biden were to pass away.
There are whispers among Democratic insiders about preselecting a substitute in advance should Biden have to step aside. The public narrative would entail a graceful transfer of power endorsed by the party’s top leaders to maintain unity and continuity. Despite the plotting from behind the scenes, replacing Biden carries substantial risks. Should the substitute nominee falter and lose to Donald Trump or any other Republican contender, the entire party would face the fallout of such a high-stakes gamble.
Complicating matters are the currently strained relations between Biden and Obama, partly stemming from previous political decisions. Michelle Obama notably skipped a White House event in late May and attended a state dinner without Biden, further fueling speculation about the tensions within the party's upper echelon.
In a recent Democratic fundraiser, Obama once again guided Biden off the stage, a gesture that underscored public concerns and potentially the precarious state of Biden's leadership in the party. However, a Democratic source insists that Speaker Pelosi has complete faith in Biden's ability to lead.
President Biden has highlighted the significance of the 2024 election for American democracy and expressed his intention to run for a second term, though it is unclear if his party will fully support him. Amidst these uncertainties, discussions among prominent Democrats like Obama and Pelosi suggest a potential reconsideration of their candidate choice for the 2024 election, reflecting a tension between backing the incumbent and exploring alternatives.
Renowned actor Sir Ian McKellen suffered a fall off the stage during a "Player Kings" performance at the Noël Coward Theatre in London, resulting in his hospitalization.
Metro reported that he is expected to make a full recovery despite the dramatic incident.
Sir Ian McKellen, aged 85, experienced the fall during a gripping fight scene involving his character, John Falstaff, with the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy. The mishap transpired near the end of Act One.
Witnesses reported that Sir Ian lost his footing and fell into the first row of the audience, expressing pain. Theater staff and medical personnel promptly attended to him as the house lights were brought up and the audience was evacuated.
A representative for the Noël Coward Theatre expressed gratitude for the support and well-wishes from the public, indicating that medical scans confirmed Sir Ian would recover swiftly and fully. Tuesday's evening show was canceled to allow him to rest.
The incident shocked theatergoers, many of whom took to social media to express their concern. Audience member Zack McCann described the horrifying scene, noting that Sir Ian tripped during a fight scene and fell into the audience, calling out for help.
"It was pretty awful to see!" McCann remarked. He commended the theater staff for their quick and efficient response in assisting Sir Ian and informing the audience about the cancellation of the show.
Another audience member reflected on the somber mood that enveloped the theater, with most questions focused on Sir Ian’s condition rather than the cancellation. The general sentiment was one of concern for the beloved actor.
"Player Kings," a 12-week West End run that began in April, features the enduring works of Henry IV, Parts One and Two. The performance scheduled for June 18 was canceled for Sir Ian’s recuperation.
The production was also scheduled to tour various cities including Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle in the coming months. Sir Ian had previously shared his long-time aspiration to play the character of Falstaff and spoke about the challenges of the role in an earlier interview with the BBC.
Following the incident, numerous social media posts from audience members praised the theater staff and medical team for their responsive actions. Sentiments across platforms echoed concern and support for Sir Ian. A representative for the theater shared: "Thank you to our audience and the general public for their well wishes. Following a scan, the brilliant NHS team has assured us that he will make a speedy and full recovery."
Audiences universally wished Sir Ian well, with many expressing their admiration and hope for his prompt return to the stage. The outpouring of concern highlighted the impact Sir Ian has had on his fans and the theater community. Earlier this year, Sir Ian reflected on the demands of playing Falstaff, mentioning the verbal challenges and the unique aspects of the character’s script. His enthusiasm for bringing the role to life underscores his dedication and passion for the craft.
In conclusion, Sir Ian McKellen’s fall during a performance of "Player Kings" resulted in his immediate hospitalization, but he is expected to recover fully. The incident led to the evacuation of the theater and the cancellation of subsequent performances to allow time for his rest and recovery. Audience members and fellow actors alike have expressed their overwhelming support and hope for his swift return to the stage.
Former President Trump targeted Black voters in Detroit by criticizing President Biden's 1994 crime bill.
According to recent polls, the event marked the launch of Trump's campaign-driven Black voter coalition amidst growing support for him in the Black community.
According to Fox News, the meeting took place at the predominantly Black 180 Church, drawing attention to Trump's attempt to engage with the community. He used the occasion to comment on Biden's authorship of the controversial 1994 legislation, which has often been blamed for contributing to mass incarceration rates affecting Black Americans.
Trump underscored the impact of increasing crime rates on the African American community, reiterating his stance on law enforcement. "Look, the crime is most rampant right here and in African American communities," he emphasized during the event.
He continued, "More people see me, and they say, ‘Sir, we want protection. We want the police to protect us. We don’t want to get robbed and mugged and beat up or killed because we want to walk across the street to buy a loaf of bread.’” This appeal seeks to position Trump as an advocate for safety and security, a theme he has frequently revisited.
Trump sharply criticized Biden's authorship of the 1994 crime bill and the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986. "Biden wrote the devastating 1994 crime bill, talking about ‘super predators.’ That was Biden. You know, he walks around now talking about the Black vote. He’s the king of the ‘super predators,’" Trump declared in his remarks.
Amid the criticism, it is pertinent to note that Biden referred to criminals as "predators" in the 1990s but did not use the term "super predators." This particular phrase was coined by Hillary Clinton in 1996. Nonetheless, Trump's statements aim to underscore Biden's contentious history regarding criminal justice reform and its impact on Black communities.
During a previous statement to The Washington Post in 2019, Biden remarked, "The road to hell is paved with good intentions," referring to his 1986 bill. Moreover, Biden labeled the 1994 crime bill a "mistake" prior to the 2020 election, showcasing his evolving stance on the legislation.
Trump's roundtable served as a launchpad for his new coalition, Black Americans for Trump, introduced ahead of the Juneteenth celebration. The coalition's formation appears to target increased voter turnout and support within the African American community.
The discussion saw the presence of notable Black leaders and supporters, including Ben Carson, former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; John James, former U.S. Senate candidate; and James Craig, former Detroit police chief. Their attendance highlights an attempt to unify and amplify Trump's message to Black voters.
Pastor Lorenzo Sewell of 180 Church welcomed the former President's visit, deeming it "significant" for the local community. This support from community leaders aims to bridge the gap between the Trump campaign and Black voters.
Reflecting on polling trends, the data suggests an upswing in Trump’s support among Black voters, marking a rise to 22% compared to the figures from 2020. This growing support could play a crucial role in battleground states including Michigan, where Trump presently leads in polls.
Trump's roundtable event in Detroit underscored his critiques of past crime bills associated with Biden and highlighted his campaign to bolster support among Black voters. The launch of Black Americans for Trump marks a strategic effort to solidify this support ahead of the 2024 election. Amid rising crime concerns, notable community endorsements, and burgeoning polling trends, Trump's engagement with Black voters could play a pivotal role in the election landscape.
The Department of Justice has decided not to prosecute Attorney General Merrick Garland following a House of Representatives vote holding him in contempt of Congress.
The House held Garland in contempt for refusing to comply with subpoenas related to an inquiry into President Joe Biden's management of classified information, but the DOJ has since declined prosecution, citing executive privilege invoked by President Joe Biden, as Breitbart reports.
It was in February that the House issued subpoenas through its Oversight and Accountability Committee and Judiciary Committee. These subpoenas sought various records, including transcripts, notes, and multimedia files as part of their investigation.
President Biden, asserting executive privilege, instructed Garland not to comply with the subpoenas. Carlos Felipe Uriarte, assistant attorney general, stated that Biden "asserted executive privilege and directed Garland" not to release materials.
The House voted 216 to 207 in favor of holding Garland in contempt of Congress. This vote reflected a contentious debate over the separation of powers and executive privilege.
The Department of Justice declared that they had provided materials pertinent to all four of the House’s requests. Additionally, former special counsel Robert Hur’s report was submitted without any further redactions.
The investigation conducted by Hur examined President Biden's handling of classified information. Hur’s report, which was released in February, noted memory lapses in Biden’s testimony.
The DOJ upheld its long-standing stance that it would not prosecute for contempt of Congress when executive privilege is invoked. This established policy was also referenced in 2019 when then-Attorney General William Barr and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross faced similar sanctions.
Assistant Attorney General Uriarte emphasized that President Biden's directive came after the DOJ had already complied significantly with the subpoena requests. The Department thus maintained that Garland’s response did not constitute a crime.
The DOJ further clarified that its legal position, reinforced by a legal opinion within the Department, supported the assertion of executive privilege. This justification was pivotal in their decision to decline prosecution.
Steve Bannon's recent legal entanglements also echoed in the backdrop of this incident. Bannon was sentenced to prison for contempt of Congress related to defying a subpoena from a committee investigating the Capitol unrest of Jan. 6, 2021.
The decision not to prosecute Garland is, according to Biden administration officials, consistent with the DOJ’s historical approach. The Department asserted it would not present the contempt citation to a grand jury. The ruling underscores the complex interplay between the legislative and executive branches of government. It reflects ongoing tensions surrounding the application and limits of executive privilege.
In conclusion, the DOJ says that its determination not to prosecute Garland upholds a precedent informed by executive privilege though Republicans in Congress have a different view. The House’s decision to hold Garland in contempt and the subsequent DOJ stance serve as significant developments in the broader inquiry into the actions of high-ranking officials and the bounds of executive authority.
Tejano singer and television host Johnny Canales, a beloved figure in Latin music, has died at the age of 77.
According to Fox News, his family confirmed his death through a statement posted on their show's Facebook page, although the cause of death was not disclosed.
Renowned for his catchphrase "Take it away," Canales hosted a popular televised music program in Corpus Christi, Texas, throughout the 1980s and 1990s. His charismatic presence and commitment to promoting Latino culture and music earned him a loyal following. The family statement announcing his death omitted any information on the cause.
Canales's family expressed their grief through an emotional post on the Johnny and Nora Canales Show Facebook page. They acknowledged not only the loss of a husband and father but also the departure of a significant cultural figure. "He was more than just a beloved husband, father, TV host, musician, and entertainer; he was a beacon of hope and joy for countless people," the statement read.
Canales is widely remembered for his role in nurturing the career of Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla-Perez, affectionately known as Selena. He provided the young singer with a platform that catapulted her to international stardom. Through his show, burgeoning artists were introduced to audiences across the United States, Mexico, and Latin America.
The influence of Canales extended beyond the stage, as his show became a cultural touchstone within the Latino community. His efforts to elevate Latino talent did not go unnoticed, and his contributions were commemorated in the Netflix series "Selena: The Series," where actor Luis Bordonada portrayed him.
Canales's impact was felt deeply in Corpus Christi, where many local musicians drew inspiration from his success. "To see someone from here do that and then blow up on a national scale, or a worldwide scale really, is really important because you want to see people like yourself doing these things," said Corpus Christi musician and music producer Dusty Oliveira to KXII-TV.
At its peak, Johnny Canales's syndicated show reached audiences across the United States, Mexico, and Latin America. The program was not only a platform for musicians but also a celebration of Latino heritage. Canales's dedication to promoting Latino music and culture permeated every episode, leaving an indelible mark on his viewers.
"His infectious charisma and dedication to promoting Latino music and culture left a large mark on the world," the family's statement continued. Canales's ability to connect with both audiences and performers made him a cherished figure in the entertainment industry.
While Canales may no longer be with us, his legacy endures through the countless artists and fans he influenced. His death marks the end of an era, but his contributions to the Tejano and broader Latino music scenes will be remembered for generations.
Johnny Canales's television show not only highlighted musical talent but also served as an important cultural platform. Emerging artists found a welcoming stage, and established performers had the opportunity to connect with new fans. Canales's energetic and engaging style became synonymous with the vibrant spirit of Latino music and entertainment.
The announcement of Canales's passing has led to an outpouring of tributes and remembrances from fans, colleagues, and the music industry at large. His contribution to enhancing the visibility of Latino artists on a national and international stage remains a significant achievement. Canales's family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time. His enduring influence on the Latino music community remains a testament to his life’s work.
Johnny Canales, a pioneering Tejano singer and TV host, has passed away at the age of 77. His family confirmed his death through a social media statement, while opting not to disclose the cause. Known for helping launch the career of Tejano superstar Selena, Canales leaves behind a profound legacy in the world of music and entertainment. His lasting impact on promoting Latino culture and heritage will be remembered by many.
The White House has not ruled out the possibility of President Joe Biden commuting his son Hunter Biden’s sentence.
Breitbart News reported that the elder Biden said he would not pardon his son, but the door remains open on a commutation.
Hunter Biden has been convicted of a gun-related offense and could face a lengthy prison sentence. Federal sentencing delays typically span two to three months, so no immediate date has been set for hearing his fate. The offense carries a potential penalty of up to 25 years in prison and a $750,000 fine.
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed the issue directly, clarifying that the sentencing is yet to be scheduled.
Despite President Biden’s definitive stance against issuing a pardon, questions regarding a commutation remain unanswered. Jean-Pierre responded to reporters’ queries with, “I just don’t have anything beyond that.”
Judge Maryellen Noreika, who recently handled a similar case, opted for a one-year sentence despite a six-month request from the defense. This precedent has added a layer of uncertainty to Hunter’s possible outcome, with analysts speculating on its potential influence.
In a recent interview with ABC News, President Biden articulated his position regarding a potential pardon. He made it clear that he would not use his executive power for clemency in this case.
According to a source familiar with their discussions, he believes, however, that his son is enduring the outcome of an unjust weaponization of the judicial system. Given the prominence of the individuals involved, the case has attracted widespread public and media scrutiny.
Hunter’s delay in sentencing is a typical practice in the federal justice system, allowing time for a thorough judicial review. Such actions, although standard, have intensified the suspense surrounding the case’s resolution.
The mainstream public and political analysts await further developments, speculating on possible implications for President Biden’s administration.
Recently, Judge Noreika’s decision in a similar case sets a significant precedent by imposing a year-long sentence despite a lighter recommendation, illustrating the unpredictability of judicial outcomes.
Hunter Biden’s future hinges on forthcoming judicial decisions and any actions the President may take, generating intense discussions among political circles and the public about potential commutation and the refusal to pardon.
As this high-profile case progresses, it symbolizes the intersection of justice and presidential powers with personal and political realms, impacting public perception and political dialogues ahead of upcoming elections.
In a recent interview with Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon stated he does not fear going to prison.
He faces a four-month sentence starting July 1 for defying a subpoena linked to the January 6 riot investigation.
According to Breitbart News, Bannon, a former adviser to former President Donald Trump, discussed his impending prison time during an interview on Carlson’s show. Despite his looming incarceration, Bannon is unrelenting in his mission, emphasizing his dedication to the country.
A federal judge ordered Bannon to serve his sentence after a jury found him guilty in 2022. His conviction was delayed pending an appeal, but the appeals court recently upheld it. His legal team, led by attorney David Schoen, criticized the decision, calling it “wrong” and concerning for setting a dangerous precedent for criminal liability.
Bannon was convicted for defying a subpoena issued by the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot, a misdemeanor he noted is rarely prosecuted.
Bannon also stressed that his imprisonment would not alter his life or mission, declaring, “Whatever it takes to win this revolution, we got to do.”
During the interview, Bannon highlighted his previous military service to frame his current predicament. He compared his time in the Navy to his upcoming prison time, asserting his willingness to serve his country under any circumstances. His firm stance emerged clearly when he stated, "I don’t fear going to prison." Bannon reiterated his dedication to his cause, even if it meant becoming a "political prisoner."
Bannon’s conviction and upcoming sentence are part of the broader context of investigations into the Trump administration. He pointed to former White House adviser Peter Navarro, noting he was the first to serve a similar sentence for contempt of Congress.
The former adviser has vocalized his opposition to what he describes as an “illegitimate regime” and “Neo-Marxists” within the government, framing his legal battles as part of a larger ideological struggle.
Bannon credited influential conservative voices, like Carlson, Alex Jones, and others, emphasizing their role in what he terms the ongoing "war." He calls for perseverance in their shared mission.
Reflecting on his decades of service, Bannon equated his prison time to his Navy days, asserting that his commitment to his cause is unwavering. He aims to continue fighting for what he believes is necessary to save the country.
As Bannon prepares to begin his sentence, his determination showcases his resilience. His message encourages his supporters to continue the fight, regardless of his physical presence.
Bannon may be stepping into prison, but his efforts and voice remain influential in the conservative movement. His declaration is a testament to his adherence to his principles and his strategy for future actions.
The U.S. Department of Justice has firmly dismissed accusations of collusion with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg in the case against former President Trump.
In a letter to the House Judiciary Committee, Assistant Attorney General Carlos Uriarte stated that claims of DOJ politicization are unsupported by any evidence, Fox News reported.
The letter, addressed to Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, was sent late Monday. It followed a verdict where Trump was found guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree. The allegations included speculation that the Justice Department had a role in the investigation led by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office.
In Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Carlos Uriarte's letter, the claims were characterized as "conspiratorial speculation" and "completely baseless." He assured that an extensive review had revealed no communication between the DOJ officials and Bragg’s office about Trump’s case. Uriarte emphasized, “The Department does not generally make extensive efforts to rebut conspiratorial speculation, including to avoid the risk of lending it credibility.”
The backdrop to this denial is Jim Jordan's April 30 letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland. Jordan brought attention to the perceived politicization at the DOJ, pointing to the appointment of Matthew B. Colangelo by Bragg. Colangelo, a former senior DOJ official, was alleged to have been brought on board to expedite the investigation against Trump.
This speculation spurred the judiciary committee's concerns, prompting the current comprehensive clarification from the Department of Justice. Uriarte's exploration included a meticulous search of email communications since January 20, 2021, encompassing all relevant DOJ officials' accounts, including Colangelo’s.
Uriarte reiterated the independent nature of the two entities. "The District Attorney’s office is a separate entity from the Department," he noted. He clarified that the Department does not supervise, approve, or control the decisions or work of the District Attorney’s office.
Such independence is foundational to the functioning of the governmental justice system. Uriarte's statement aimed to quash any notion suggesting the District Attorney’s compliance with DOJ directives. The letter communicated that the Justice Department respects this separation, countering any accusations implying otherwise.
These clarifications from Uriarte's office illustrate efforts to maintain transparency and dispel doubts. The autonomy between the two legal entities is central to upholding public trust in judicial processes.
Uriarte pointed out the potential harm caused by unfounded accusations. He reinforced that baseless accusations undermine public confidence in the justice system and endanger the safety of law enforcement officials.
Such claims can lead to threats of violence, posing a significant risk to those administering justice. He stated, “Accusations of wrongdoing made without—and in fact contrary to—evidence undermine confidence in the justice system and have contributed to increased threats of violence and attacks on career law enforcement officials and prosecutors.”
In conclusion, the Department of Justice has denied any involvement in Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's prosecution of former President Trump, affirming its independence. Assistant Attorney General Carlos Uriarte clarified to the House Judiciary Committee that there were no conspiratorial communications between the DOJ and Bragg's office.
This statement was in response to concerns raised by Jim Jordan regarding the hiring of Matthew B. Colangelo, emphasizing the need for separation of authorities and highlighting the negative impact of false allegations on the justice system and its officials.