Full Breakdown
Turmoil Hits Trump-Ordered “Grand Conspiracy” Investigation
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
In late September, Attorney General Todd Blanche ordered Joseph diGenova, the 81-year-old former prosecutor appointed by President Trump, to return to his office after diGenova allegedly lashed out at two Washington prosecutors assisting the case. Facing the prospect of dismissal, diGenova quit the investigation. Within days, his top deputy, Kurt Olsen, also resigned after a polygraph test raised concerns about his foreign contacts, threatening his security clearance. Olsen told two sources he had complied with all foreign-contact requirements but declined further comment.
Background & Context
President Trump revived diGenova in April, pulling him out of retirement to lead the Justice Department’s “grand conspiracy” case—an effort described as the most expansive attempt to pursue individuals the president deems his enemies. The investigation targets those who investigated Trump, reflecting his stated desire for vengeance against perceived adversaries.
Key Figures
- Joseph diGenova – former prosecutor, appointed by Trump to head the “grand conspiracy” probe.
- Todd Blanche – Attorney General who ordered diGenova back to his office and oversaw the investigation.
- Kurt Olsen – diGenova’s deputy, whose resignation followed a failed polygraph on foreign contacts.
Impact on the Justice Department
The dual departures expose months of internal dysfunction and suggest that Trump’s revenge-driven agenda has divided the Justice Department. Sources say the turmoil has diverted resources from other investigations and weakened the longstanding principle that politics should remain separate from federal law enforcement.
Official Statements & Responses
According to people briefed on the exchange, Blanche’s directive to diGenova was delivered “or else,” indicating a threat of termination. Olsen’s assertion of compliance with foreign-contact rules was reported by two insiders, though no formal DOJ comment has been released regarding either resignation or the status of the “grand conspiracy” case.