Overview
- The Justice Department, under President Donald Trump, ordered the dismissal of federal bribery charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, citing national priorities like immigration enforcement.
- At least seven federal prosecutors, including acting U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon of the Southern District of New York, resigned in protest, citing ethical concerns and potential political interference.
- Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, a former Trump defense lawyer, defended the directive and accused dissenting prosecutors of insubordination, while referring them for misconduct investigations.
- The resignations have drawn comparisons to the 'Saturday Night Massacre' under President Nixon, highlighting tensions between career prosecutors and political appointees in the Justice Department.
- Critics warn the episode sets a troubling precedent for using prosecutorial power to influence political figures, as Adams' charges were dismissed 'without prejudice,' allowing potential future reinstatement.