Earlier, sources say that former President Donald Trump reached out to Republican allies to gauge their opinions on whether he should fire the then-Acting Attorney General Sally Yates. This revelation comes after Trump ultimately relieved Yates of her duties, sparking widespread controversy and debate.
According to multiple sources, Trump made several phone calls to prominent Republicans in the days leading up to Yates’ dismissal. The President is said to have been seeking advice on whether he should fire Yates, who had just days prior instructed the Department of Justice not to defend Trump’s controversial travel ban. This executive order temporarily banned citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries from entering the United States, causing chaos and confusion at airports around the country.
While the details of these phone calls are still emerging, sources say that Trump was met with a mixed response from Republican allies. Some advised him to move forward with firing Yates, while others urged him to take a more cautious approach.
The ultimate decision to terminate Yates was met with shock and outcry from many, as she had only been in the position for ten days. She had been a long-time employee of the Department of Justice, serving under both Democratic and Republican administrations. Yates had also famously stood up to Trump’s attempted travel ban, citing her duty to uphold the Constitution and the law.
Her firing immediately ignited concerns about the independence of the Department of Justice under the new administration. Many feared that Trump was attempting to wield too much control over the justice system, leading to widespread speculation and criticism.
However, Trump’s supporters defended his decision to dismiss Yates, citing her defiance of the President’s executive order as grounds for her termination. They argued that she had overstepped her authority and was refusing to carry out the President’s wishes.
Despite the backlash, Trump was resolute in his decision to fire Yates. He immediately appointed Dana Boente, a US attorney from Virginia, as the new Acting Attorney General. In a statement, the White House praised Boente’s “long and distinguished history of public service” and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the Department of Justice.
Since then, Boente has faced his own share of controversy, with many questioning his qualifications and potential conflicts of interest. But the focus has shifted away from Yates and onto Trump’s relationship with the Department of Justice. Many are concerned about the President’s continuous attempts to control and influence the justice system, and worry about the implications this may have for the rule of law.
This latest development only adds to the intrigue surrounding Trump’s presidency. His unconventional approach and willingness to challenge the norms of Washington have been met with both praise and criticism. Time will tell how this will play out in the long run, but for now, the spotlight remains on the new administration and its relationship with the Department of Justice.
In the end, the controversy surrounding Sally Yates’ firing may have died down, but the impact of this event will continue to be felt for months to come. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law, even in the face of opposition. And as for President Trump, he will continue to face scrutiny and criticism for his decisions, while his supporters will stand behind him. These recent events only solidify the notion that this administration will be anything but ordinary.
