Rep. Daniel Goldman’s Critique of DOJ’s Actions
Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) criticized the Justice Department’s decision to drop the criminal bribery case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, labeling it as an act of outright extortion. He expressed deep concerns over what he perceived as the politicization of the federal government’s legal arm.
During an appearance on MSNBC’s ‘Inside with Jen Psaki,’ Goldman stated, ‘It is an outright extortion. … This is way, way, way outside the bounds of the Department of Justice.’
Significance of DOJ’s Move
Goldman compared the situation to the infamous ‘Saturday Night Massacre’ in the Department of Justice, alluding to the 1973 firing of special prosecutor Archibald Cox during the Watergate scandal.
Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove’s directive to dismiss the charges against Adams was met with significant backlash. Bove justified the decision by asserting that the case improperly interfered with the mayor’s reelection campaign and could hinder his ability to support President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Reactions and Fallout
Following the dismissal, Adams announced a shift in policy regarding ICE agents working on Rikers Island, a move that diverged from the city’s ‘sanctuary city’ stance. The mayor’s alignment with the Trump administration prompted calls for his resignation from prominent New York Democrats.
Despite his criticism of the DOJ’s actions, Goldman refrained from advocating for Adams’s removal by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul at this juncture, expressing hope for a resolution within the state’s political leadership.
Concerns Over DOJ’s Politicization
Goldman highlighted the worrisome trend of politicization within the Justice Department, emphasizing the need to halt such practices. He warned of the dangers posed by the department’s direction under current circumstances.
As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders continue to scrutinize the implications of the DOJ’s decision and its broader impact on legal and political norms.
