Trump Pressures DOJ to Charge Political Rivals, Sparking Criticism

Former President Donald Trump publicly called on the Department of Justice to pursue charges against political opponents, raising fresh concerns about the politicization of law enforcement. In a Truth Social post on Saturday, Trump urged Attorney General Pam Bondi to take legal action against Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and New York Attorney General Letitia James.

Trump’s comments came after Federal Housing Finance Agency director and ally Bill Pulte accused Schiff and James of falsifying mortgage documents—allegations that remain unverified. Trump used the post to express frustration over what he perceives as a lack of accountability for Democrats, stating, “They’re all guilty as hell, but nothing is going to be done.”

The former president criticized U.S. Attorney Erik Siebert of the Eastern District of Virginia, who resigned Friday after reportedly finding insufficient evidence to pursue mortgage fraud charges. Trump claimed he fired Siebert and insisted there is “a GREAT CASE,” echoing support from unnamed legal experts. Trump framed the situation as further proof that action against his rivals has been unfairly delayed.

In a follow-up post, Trump praised Bondi and announced plans to nominate attorney Lindsey Halligan as U.S. Attorney in Virginia. He described Halligan as a “tough prosecutor” who will deliver “justice for all” and criticized what he called Democrat-endorsed “Republicans” who fail to take action.

Critics argue Trump’s demands undermine the Justice Department’s independence. Schiff led Trump’s first impeachment, while James pursued a civil fraud case resulting in a $464 million judgment, later reduced on appeal. Bondi claimed on Fox News that Trump is ending DOJ “weaponization,” as legal pressure continues to surround him.