Former Pardon Attorney Accuses DOJ of Corruption in Testimony

Washington, D.C. — Former U.S. Pardon Attorney Liz Oyer testified before Congress on April 7, 2025, accusing the Department of Justice (DOJ) of “ongoing corruption” and overreaches of power. Oyer raised these concerns in the wake of her abrupt termination from her position earlier this year.

Oyer was appointed to her role in 2022 by President Joe Biden, after a career as a public defender. Her responsibilities included reviewing clemency applications from individuals seeking presidential pardons. However, her tenure ended in March when she refused to recommend the reinstatement of actor Mel Gibson’s gun rights following a domestic violence conviction.

“I felt pressured to approve something that was unethical,” Oyer stated in her testimony. Less than 24 hours after her refusal, she reported being terminated from her role.

During her testimony, Oyer alleged that the DOJ attempted to intimidate her ahead of her congressional appearance. According to her, armed U.S. marshals were sent to her home with a message warning her about the potential consequences of testifying.

“It was an attempt to display the power of the Department of Justice,” Oyer said, expressing that the incident made her feel unsafe in sharing the truth about her dismissal.

In response to Oyer’s allegations, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche labeled her claims as “erroneous,” stating that her testimony breached her ethical obligations as an attorney. He emphasized that her accusations were a distraction from the DOJ’s core mission to uphold the law and ensure public safety.

Oyer’s testimony and the controversy surrounding her firing have sparked significant discussion about the role of the U.S. Pardon Attorney and the implications of political pressure within the DOJ. Her story raises critical questions regarding independence and integrity in the justice system.

As debates continue, Oyer has expressed a desire for transparency and reform within the Department of Justice. Her situation highlights the challenges faced by government employees who advocate for ethical standards.