Garland Defends DOJ Independence in Farewell Speech Amid Trump Criticism

WASHINGTON — Outgoing Attorney General Merrick Garland delivered a farewell speech to Justice Department staffers on Thursday, defending the agency’s independence and rebuking criticism from President-elect Donald Trump and his allies, who have accused the department of political bias.

“The story that has been told by some outside of this building about what has happened inside of it is wrong. You have worked to pursue justice, not politics. That is the truth and nothing can change it,” Garland said in a standing-room-only address.

Garland emphasized the importance of maintaining the Justice Department’s independence from political influence, particularly as Trump prepares to appoint Pam Bondi as his next attorney general. Bondi faced scrutiny during her Senate confirmation hearing this week, with Democrats questioning whether she would prioritize the interests of the American people over those of the president-elect.

“We make that commitment not because independence is necessarily constitutionally required, but because it is the only way to ensure that our law enforcement decisions are free from partisan influence,” Garland said.

The outgoing attorney general also addressed concerns about the “weaponization” of the Justice Department, a term used by both Republicans and Democrats to criticize perceived political interference in law enforcement. Garland acknowledged the challenges faced by public servants, including unfounded attacks on law enforcement officers following high-profile investigations.

“I know that you have faced unfounded attacks simply for doing your jobs, at the very same time you have risked your lives to protect our country from a range of foreign and domestic threats,” Garland said.

Garland’s speech came a day after Bondi testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where she denied allegations that she would prosecute Trump’s political opponents. “No one will be prosecuted, investigated because they are a political opponent. That’s what we’ve seen for the last four years in this administration,” Bondi said.

Garland also highlighted the importance of protecting journalists and ensuring a free press, calling it “essential to our democracy.” He urged future attorneys general to respect the roles of career officers within the department, describing them as the “institutional backbone and historical memory” of the Justice Department.

Ahead of Garland’s speech, outgoing FBI Director Christopher Wray praised the attorney general for his service. “It’s not a doubt in my mind the American people are safer and better because of your time in public service,” Wray said.

Other Justice Department officials, including Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco and Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar, also expressed gratitude for Garland’s leadership. A video collage featuring Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator Anne Milgram, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Director Steven M. Dettelbach, and other officials further underscored the widespread appreciation for Garland’s tenure.

Garland’s remarks concluded with a call for future leaders to uphold the principles of justice and integrity. “It is the obligation of the Attorney General to make clear that the only way for the Justice Department to do the right thing is to do it the right way. That unjust means cannot achieve just ends,” he said.