Attorney General Merrick Garland recently addressed Department of Justice (DOJ) employees, commending them for their dedication to serving the American people with skill and integrity. He emphasized the importance of upholding principles of fairness and impartiality, echoing sentiments shared by former Attorney General Robert Jackson over eight decades ago.
Garland highlighted the historical significance of DOJ norms established by past leaders like Attorneys General Ed Levy, Griffin Bell, and Benjamin Civiletti, who worked to restore public confidence in the wake of Watergate. These norms, enshrined in the Principles of Federal Prosecution, serve as a guide for prosecutors to ensure equal application of the law without bias based on race, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
Throughout his tenure, Garland has prioritized reinforcing these norms within the DOJ to safeguard its independence from political interference. Measures such as regulating contacts with the White House and Congress, enhancing FBI investigation guidelines, and protecting press freedoms have been implemented to uphold the rule of law.
Despite facing challenges such as rising violent crime and unprecedented attacks on DOJ personnel, Garland praised the resilience and dedication of employees who continue to uphold the department's values. He condemned efforts to intimidate and target career public servants, emphasizing that their commitment to justice deserves recognition and respect.
Garland reassured DOJ employees of his unwavering support and vowed to defend the department against unfounded attacks. He expressed gratitude for their noble work and affirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, underscoring the crucial role of DOJ personnel in ensuring a fair and impartial justice system.
