Full Breakdown
Attorney General Pam Bondi Terminates DOJ Employee for Inappropriate Conduct Towards National Guard
8/30/2025, 11:57:09 PM
Incident Overview: Termination of Elizabeth Baxter
On August 29, 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the termination of Elizabeth Baxter, a paralegal in the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Environmental Defense Section, for allegedly making obscene gestures towards National Guard members in Washington, D.C. The incidents reportedly occurred on August 18, when Baxter was seen on security footage flipping off a National Guard member at the Metro Center Metro Stop and later boasting about the act to a DOJ security guard, stating, “F**k the National Guard.” Bondi emphasized the DOJ's commitment to supporting law enforcement and stated, “If you oppose our mission and disrespect law enforcement—you will NO LONGER work at DOJ.”
Context: Increased Federal Presence in D.C.
The incident comes amid heightened federal law enforcement activity in Washington, D.C., initiated by President Donald Trump to address crime in the capital. This operation has involved deploying National Guard troops and federal agents throughout the city. Critics, including some Democratic lawmakers, have characterized these actions as excessive and racially motivated, arguing that crime rates were already declining prior to the federal intervention.
Background: Previous Termination of Sean Charles Dunn
Baxter's termination marks the second dismissal of a DOJ employee in a short period for inappropriate conduct towards law enforcement. Earlier in August, Sean Charles Dunn, another paralegal in the same building, was fired after allegedly throwing a Subway sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection officer. Dunn's actions were part of a broader pattern of disrespect towards federal officers, which Bondi condemned, stating, “You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement.”
Official Statements & Responses
Bondi's termination letter to Baxter explicitly cited her “inappropriate conduct towards National Guard service members” as the reason for her dismissal. A DOJ spokesperson supported the decision, stating that the department remains committed to law enforcement and that employees who do not share this commitment may not fit within the DOJ. Bondi reiterated her stance on social media, emphasizing the DOJ's mission to support law enforcement and maintain public safety.
Criticism & Opposition
The actions of Bondi and the DOJ have drawn criticism from various quarters. Some observers argue that the firings reflect a broader attempt to suppress dissent within federal agencies, particularly against the backdrop of Trump's controversial policies. Critics have also pointed out that the incidents involving Baxter and Dunn highlight a troubling trend of hostility towards law enforcement, which they argue could undermine public trust in federal agencies.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While multiple sources confirm the incidents involving Baxter, discrepancies exist regarding the frequency and context of her alleged remarks. Some reports suggest that Baxter made similar statements on multiple occasions, while others focus primarily on the initial incident at the Metro Center. Additionally, the broader implications of these firings on the DOJ's internal culture and public perception remain unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ Today, I took action to terminate a DOJ employee for inappropriate conduct towards National Guard service members in DC.” — Attorney General Pam Bondi
- “If you oppose our mission and disrespect law enforcement—you will NO LONGER work at DOJ.” — Attorney General Pam Bondi
- “Based on your inappropriate conduct towards National Guard service members, your employment with the Department of Justice is hereby terminated,” — Termination letter to Elizabeth Baxter
The termination of Elizabeth Baxter serves as a significant example of the DOJ's stance on employee conduct in relation to law enforcement, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding federal interventions in local governance and public safety.
