On assuming his position as the Attorney General, Merrick Garland committed to upholding the so-called “norms” of the Justice Department and steering clear of political bias. However, two years into his term, the erstwhile federal judge has found himself amidst a political tempest of an unprecedented magnitude.
The indictment of Donald Trump, the first ex-president to face federal criminal charges, resulted in mass protests at the Miami courthouse last week. The charges have also spurred social media diatribes from Trump and a barrage of Republican criticism.
Charging Trump, who is vying for the presidency once more, is arguably the most pivotal decision in the Justice Department’s history. The final word on the charges came from Garland, a man known for his mild manner.
The day Trump was informed of the charges was unusually tranquil at the majestic Justice Department headquarters. This tranquillity extended into the night despite the uproar when Trump shared the news on his social media platform.
Garland’s ability to maintain an unflustered demeanour during high-profile situations isn’t new. He remained silent when his Supreme Court nomination by President Obama in 2016 was held up long enough to break a century-old record before ultimately expiring.
Garland’s twenty-year tenure as a judge was evident in his composed demeanour and considered comments regarding the Trump charges. He asserted adherence to the rules and regulations for special counsels, defending investigator Jack Smith, a seasoned career prosecutor.
Garland’s steadfast commitment to the rule of law hasn’t appeased Republicans, who remain loyal to Trump and characterize the charges as political bias.
Garland’s close associates describe him as a cautious, reflective individual, rarely showcasing his emotions. Despite his controlled demeanour, friend Robert Post, a professor at Yale Law School, acknowledges the situation must be challenging.
Garland’s appointment of Smith as special counsel following Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign announcement was another attempt to preserve Justice Department norms. Smith, a former war crimes prosecutor, maintains that the rule of law applies equally to all.
Trump publicly announced his indictment on June 8, and President Biden found out about the 37 felony counts against the former president through news coverage. He stated that he had no communication with Garland regarding the case.
Garland, a federal appeals court judge for over two decades, was confirmed as the Attorney General by the Senate in March 2021 on a bipartisan vote. His meticulous preparation for prosecuting the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing case while in the Justice Department earned him a solid reputation.
In contrast to his predecessor, Bill Barr, Garland’s approach to releasing another special counsel investigation was low-profile. As more special counsel findings are expected, Garland’s commitment to “independence and accountability” will continue to be tested.
Despite the political tumult and historic nature of the charges brought against a former president, Garland remains committed to upholding the integrity and impartiality of the Justice Department. As he continues to navigate the unpredictable currents of this unprecedented situation, his unwavering resolve to maintain “independence and accountability” will be his guiding principle. The forthcoming findings from multiple special counsel investigations will test his resolve further, but if past actions are any indication, Garland’s poker face seems set to endure.
