by – L. Richardson

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a significant move by filing a bold Freedom of Information Act request [12]. This request, if successful, could shed light on how the Department of Justice targeted President Trump. Paxton’s FOIA request delves into Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigation, seeking details about communications, decisions, and any potential political bias behind the D.O.J.’s actions. Many Americans perceive this investigation as a political attack on the former President. Paxton’s action is crucial and empowering, as it aims to uncover the truth and inform the public, giving them the power of knowledge.

The detailed FOIA request aims to find records that show D.O.J. corruption and political retaliation in the Trump probe. Paxton’s office has ordered all investigation-related documents to be preserved and warned of legal action if any records are destroyed. The request looks explicitly at communications between the D.O.J. and various government offices to reveal possible bias and coordination at the highest levels of the justice system.

Background on FOIA Request

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s decisive action against the Department of Justice is not to be underestimated. His comprehensive FOIA request aims to uncover potential corruption in Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigation of President-elect Trump. This request, submitted under Texas’s sovereign authority, is crucial in examining what many consider a politically motivated prosecution. The potential impact of this request is not just significant but urgent, and its success could have far-reaching implications for the future of government transparency and accountability.

Overview of Paxton’s FOIA Request

Paxton’s request breaks new ground. The D.O.J. operation he targets has already cost taxpayers over $30 million. These funds went to hire a private individual for what Paxton calls “partisan lawfare” against the former President 3. His request just needs:

  • All communications between the D.O.J. and state offices
  • Records of Smith’s investigation’s decision-making processes
  • Documentation of resource allocation and expenditures
  • Internal correspondence about the investigation’s direction and purpose

Why This Matters

This FOIA request carries immense weight. Paxton strongly argues that the investigation affects Texas’s fundamental right to stop unlawful federal actions. The need for this request is not just a matter of legal procedure but a structural necessity in a real democracy. Citizens play a crucial role in demanding transparency and understanding their Government’s actions. This request is a significant step in that direction [13]. Your support is critical to this process.

Recent history makes this request even more pressing. Teams like Robert Mueller allegedly destroyed their records when investigations ended to dodge accountability 1. Such evasive behavior has made the House Judiciary Committee worry about records being”purged” to avoid oversight 1.

Paxton’s office boldly warned that destroying requested documents would violate 18 U.S.C. § 1361 2. The House Judiciary Committee backs this stance. Chairman Jim Jordan and Rep. Barry Loudermilk demanded that Smith hand over all investigation documents to Congress before the end of the month 1.

The request’s timing aligns with what Paxton sees as a troubling trend. He points to the justice system used against political opponents in the last four years 4. This FOIA demand goes beyond asking for information. It challenges actions that Paxton says”erode the rule of law that distinguishes the United States from third-world, totalitarian regimes” 3.

Historical Context of D.O.J. Corruption

A disturbing pattern of institutional abuse plagues the Department of Justice’s dark history. This corruption spans several decades and poses a serious threat to American democracy. F.B.I. Director J. Edgar Hoover demonstrated this abuse of power during the Cold War era. He regularly circumvented the attorney general’s authority and launched unauthorized operations. His primary goal was to infiltrate and discredit political leaders he considered subversive 5. Hoover’s actions became even more concerning when he secretly shared compromising information about political opponents with eight presidents – equally split between Republicans and Democrats. This established a dangerous model of using federal law enforcement as a political weapon 5.

Special Counsel Record Destruction

Special Counsel Mueller’s team took accountability evasion to unprecedented levels by systematically deleting significant records. Senator Chuck Grassley’s investigation found team members who deleted material from their mobile devices. This raised serious questions about federal record-keeping law violations 6. The timing proved particularly concerning as officials deleted these records after the D.O.J. Inspector General started investigating Crossfire Hurricane’s mishandling 6.

The institutional corruption manifested through:

  • The Nixon-era Justice Department targeted political enemies, from Vietnam War opponents to Black nationalist groups 5
  • D.O.J. employees and contractors who retired or resigned to avoid consequences 7
  • Multiple record destructions that happened after oversight investigations began 6

Implications of Ongoing Bias

These actions have devastated public trust. Law enforcement institutions now handle the country’s political disputes—a role voters and Congress should manage. The erosion of public confidence in these institutions undermines their ability to serve the public effectively. It threatens the foundation of nonpartisan public service. Current and former D.O.J. officials privately admit this. A dangerous cycle has emerged where hyperpartisanship erodes the very foundation of nonpartisan public service.

Federal law enforcement agencies face a complex challenge. They must serve presidential administrations while investigating them 5. This institutional conflict makes it almost impossible to maintain broad public support during political investigations 5. Former F.B.I. Director Wray reminds us of past F.B.I. mistakes. The unauthorized surveillance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. shows what happens” when we become untethered from the rule of law and from oversight and accountability” 8 [14].

Young Americans might avoid careers in federal law enforcement. This could lead to more politicized agencies and create cycles of political payback 5. These vital institutions risk becoming weapons of partisan warfare instead of justice’s guardians.

Key Points fromPaxton’ss FOIA Letter

Paxton’s FOIA letter unleashes a powerful attack on D.O.J. secrecy. This complete demand shows evidence of his dedication to fighting institutional corruption. His actions mark a defining moment in the battle against weaponized justice.

Just Need for Transparency

The FOIA request reveals critical aspects of the D.O.J.’s operations and just needs complete disclosure of the following:

  • All internal communications regarding Trump investigations
  • Correspondence between D.O.J. officials and state attorneys general
  • Records of meetings with federal agencies and contractors
  • Documentation of resource allocation and planning strategies
  • Evidence of coordination with state-level prosecutors

Scope of Information Sought

Paxton’s office has cast a wide net that goes way beyond the reach and influence of surface-level communications into Smith’s investigation’s resilient infrastructure. Their request specifically targets records that could expose potential collusion between federal prosecutors and state-level actors. They need access to formal documentation and informal exchanges showing coordinated efforts against President Trump.

The investigation digs deeper than essential documentation. It aims to uncover the decision-making processes behind what many see as politically motivated prosecutions. The request contains internal memos, email chains, and text messages that could reveal the D.O.J.’s true intentions regarding Trump.

Accountability in Record Retention

Paxton’s office boldly moved to prevent cover-ups, clearly warning that criminal prosecution would follow any destruction of requested records. This uncompromising stance tackles the concerning pattern of previous Special Counsels destroying evidence to dodge accountability.

The office clearly stated that all documents must stay intact, whatever their format or storage medium. The preservation rules apply to digital communications, handwritten notes, and messages from informal platforms. Their warning points to federal statutes that make destroying these records a severe criminal offense, showing Paxton’s steadfast dedication to full accountability.

This complete preservation requirement strongly warns against record destruction that damaged earlier investigations. Texas now sends a clear message to the D.O.J. about defending transparency and justice for the American people.

Impact onTrump’ss Presidency and Justice for Americans

Texas’s Attorney General’s groundbreaking FOIA request will reshape the scene of American justice. This action could impact President Trump’s legacy and every American citizen’s fundamental rights. The request marks a crucial point in our nation’s push toward accountability from top government officials.

Repercussions for President-Elect Trump

The findings of this FOIA request could reshape the story of President Trump’s presidency. The release of internal D.O.J. communications and decision-making processes will likely:

  • Show how federal and state prosecutors worked together
  • Highlight political targeting within the justice system
  • Show patterns of bias in investigation methods
  • Reveal unauthorized surveillance operations
  • Show how federal resources served political goals

These findings could vindicate President Trump’s long-standing assertions about federal agencies being used against him. Paxton’s office just needs transparency that could prove how partisan D.O.J. officials coordinated what many Americans see as a deliberate campaign of political persecution.

Public’s Right to Know

This FOIA request goes far beyond the reach and influence of partisan politics. It touches the core of American democracy. The Texas Attorney General’s office has taken a vital step in restoring citizens’ right to learn about their Government’s actions.

Government agencies should work for the American people. The push for transparency reminds us of this fundamental truth. This request will enable citizens to:

  1. Get into the decision-making behind politically charged investigations
  2. Learn how their tax dollars fund partisan pursuits
  3. Assess if charges against their elected President are legitimate
  4. Make officials accountable when they misuse their power

This unique drive for transparency shines as a beacon of hope for American patriots who have seen their justice system target political opponents. The findings from this FOIA request could reveal deep institutional corruption and provide evidence to fix America’s justice system.

These revelations could completely change Americans’ relationship with federal law enforcement agencies. The FOIA request helps restore trust in American institutions by exposing the D.O.J.’s politically driven investigations. It ensures justice serves the people rather than partisan interests.

Call to Action:

How Americans Can Support the Fight

Americans now have a great chance to support Texas Attorney General KenPaxton’s quest for truth and accountability against D.O.J. corruption. The Freedom of Information Act represents”a structural necessity in a real democracy” 2. American citizens just need transparency from their government institutions—it’s their fundamental right.

Spread the Message

The Texas Attorney General’s Office updates constituents on vital, newsworthy developments 2. Patriots should help magnify these messages. This FOIA request will “significantly contribute to the public’s understanding of the Specia Counsel’s investigation” 2. The request matters, especially when you have the newly elected 47th President of the United States.

Americans can support this fight by:

  • SpreadingPaxton’ss FOIA updates on social platforms
  • Teaching fellow citizens about their right to government transparency
  • Showing why D.O.J. record preservation matters

Contact the D.O.J.

The Department of Justice has long-standing specific channels that allow public communication about transparency matters. Citizens can submit questions and comments through the D.O.J.’s official communication channels 9. Here is what you should include at the time of contacting the D.O.J.:

  • Include reference toPaxton’ss FOIA request
  • Just need the preservation of all investigation-related records
  • Express support for complete transparency in the Trump investigation

Important Note: The D.O.J. acknowledges that ” in some instances, the volume of communication on a particular issue is such that we cannot respond to each message individually ” 9 [15]. However, they ensure that”all incoming messages are forwarded to the appropriate organization within the Department of Justice” 9 [16].

Stay Informed and Participate

The FOIA protects the public’s fundamental right to””know what their Government is up to”” 2. This vital legislation has allowed citizens to request records from any federal agency since 1967 10. Here is how to take action:

  1. Monitor the Texas AttorneyGeneral’ss official communications
  2. Follow developments in the SpecialCounsel’ss investigation
  3. Watch for updates on record preservation efforts

The D.O.J. must “proactively post certain categories of information online, including frequently requested records” 10. People should keep checking these resources. Agencies can “withhold information only if they reasonably foresee that disclosure would harm an interest protected by an exemption” 10 [17].

This fight for transparency goes beyond a simple request for information. The battle tests whether government agencies will fulfill their duty to work” in a spirit of cooperation” with FOIA requesters 11. The American people’s watchfulness and continued participation will determine whether justice and truth prevail.

Conclusion

Paxton’ss bold FOIA request serves as a strong defense against D.O.J. corruption. It aims to reveal the truth about what many Americans believe is political persecution. His push for transparency directly challenges institutional abuse. The request seeks answers about taxpayer money spent and the targeting of President Trump. Texas shows its steadfast dedication to protecting democratic principles and law by making this complete request and warning against destroying records.

The American people stand at a turning point in their history. Exposing potential D.O.J. corruption could help rebuild trust in the justice system. Patriots of all backgrounds should stand together in this vital fight for transparency. They should just need answers from their Government and reject any misuse of federal agencies for political gain. Public watchfulness and determination will drive Paxton’s initiative to success. This matters deeply because future generations deserve a justice system they can trust.

References

[1] – https://www.foxnews.com/politics/texas-ag-demands-records-special-counsel-investigation-trump

[2] – https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/11/foia-request.pdf

[3] – https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-files-amicus-brief-supporting-president-trump-arguing-special-prosecutor

[4] – https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-takes-action-after-biden-harris-administration-selectively-targets-elon

[5] – https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/bitter-personal-battle-top-fbi-doj-officials-mar-lago-rcna169067

[6] – https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/doj-foia-release-members-mueller-team-repeatedly-wiped-phones-watchdog-sought

[7] – https://oig.justice.gov/sites/default/files/reports/TMPC-2023.pdf

[8] – https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/investigations-and-oversight-director-wray-discusses-fbi-s-commitment-to-government-accountability

[9] – https://www.justice.gov/doj/webform/your-message-department-justice

[10] – https://www.foia.gov/about.html

[11] – https://www.justice.gov/oip/blog/foia-post-2010-oip-guidance-importance-good-communication-foia-requesters

[12] – November 21, 2023 – The Daily Fetched. https://www.dailyfetched.com/2023/11/21/

[13] – NFC x Nebraska Public Media Group (04.06.23). https://www.nebraskafreedom.org/post/nfc-x-nebraska-public-media-group-04-06-23

[14] – Why We Do the Job: Lessons from 9/11 for New Agents and Intelligence Analysts — F.B.I. https://www.fbi.gov/news/speeches/why-we-do-the-job-lessons-from-911-for-new-agents-and-intelligence-analysts

[15] – Contact Us | Campus Drug Prevention. https://www.campusdrugprevention.gov/cdp/contact-us

[16] – D.O.J.: Contact Us. https://webharvest.gov/peth04/20041015004852/http://www.usdoj.gov/contact-us.html

[17] – FOIA – 1st Choice Management Consulting. https://www.1stchoicegov.com/foia/

[18] – Rofé, J. (2024). Peripheral Detention, Transfer, and Access to the Courts. Michigan Law Review, 122(5), 0_1-926.

[19] – https://www.grassley.senate.gov/news/news-releases/doj-foia-release-members-mueller-team-repeatedly-wiped-phones-watchdog-sought

[20] – https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/sites/default/files/files/press/files/2024/FOIA-Request.pdf

[21] – https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/news/releases/attorney-general-ken-paxton-demands-jack-smiths-records-after-illegal-weaponization-justice-system-1

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