Full Breakdown
Departures from the Justice Department: Impacts and Reactions
2/19/2026, 5:36:09 AM
High Turnover at the Justice Department
The Justice Department has experienced significant turnover, with over 5,000 employees resigning, retiring, or being dismissed during the first year of President Donald Trump's second administration. This mass exodus has been attributed to the administration's efforts to demote or remove prosecutors involved in cases related to Trump or the January 6 Capitol riot. Michael Romano, a former federal prosecutor who left the department in March 2025, has emerged as a vocal critic of these actions, testifying before Congress about the implications for democracy. He emphasized the importance of prosecuting those involved in the Capitol riot, stating, "There were no small crimes on Jan. 6, 2021."
Impact on Legal Professionals and Organizations
The turnover at the Justice Department has created opportunities for private law firms and nonprofit organizations. Romano, now working at a private firm, has shifted his focus to labor disputes, leveraging his investigative experience from the Justice Department. Other former officials, like Greg Rosen, who led the Capitol Siege Section, have also transitioned to private practice, highlighting the value of their firsthand experience in addressing concerns about the administration's actions.
The Washington Litigation Group, a nonprofit legal organization, has attracted several former Justice Department attorneys, including Sydney Foster, who previously served as acting chief of the Civil Rights Division's Appellate Section. Foster's departure is seen as a significant loss for the Justice Department, as she had argued numerous cases before federal appellate courts. She remarked on the critical nature of the current moment for democracy, stating, "We are focusing on bringing the most impactful cases in this very critical moment."
Broader Implications and Criticism
Stacey Young, founder of Justice Connection, criticized the Justice Department's decisions, asserting that the agency's actions have led to a loss of institutional knowledge that may never be recovered. She noted that external employers are benefiting from the talent being lost, as many former prosecutors are now working in private firms or local government roles.
In Minnesota, the controversial actions of immigration agents have contributed to the departure of attorneys from the U.S. Attorney's Office, with some former officials establishing their own private practices. Joe Thompson, a former acting U.S. attorney, has launched a boutique law firm focused on white-collar defense and crisis management.
Political Aspirations of Former Prosecutors
Several former Justice Department prosecutors are now pursuing political office. Ryan Crosswell, who resigned amid the administration's decision to drop a case against former New York Mayor Eric Adams, is running for a House seat in Pennsylvania, receiving endorsements from groups like VoteVets. J.P. Cooney, another former prosecutor, has announced his candidacy for a House seat in Virginia, framing his campaign around his commitment to the rule of law and criticizing Trump's influence on the Justice Department.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is an honor to speak with you today,” — Michael Romano, Former Federal Prosecutor
- “What matters is that people with firsthand experience are willing to raise concerns when they believe something is amiss,” — Greg Rosen, Former Head of Capitol Siege Section
- “We are focusing on bringing the most impactful cases in this very critical moment,” — Sydney Foster, Former Acting Chief of Civil Rights Division's Appellate Section
- “I view it as a badge of honor for standing for the rule of law and the Constitution.” — J.P. Cooney, Former Prosecutor
The ongoing shifts within the Justice Department and the subsequent responses from former officials underscore the complex interplay between legal integrity, political influence, and the future of American democracy.
