BOOM BAG UPDATE: Who will Donald Trump name as U.S. attorney general?
As President-elect Donald Trump shapes his administration for 2024, all eyes are on his choice for attorney general, an appointment that could significantly influence the trajectory of American justice in the coming years. Following years of tension between Trump and the Justice Department, marked by investigations into election interference, classified documents, and probes into Trump himself, many anticipate that Trump’s choice for attorney general will be one of his most pivotal—and controversial—decisions. Here’s a look at the main candidates under consideration and what they bring to the table.
1. Sen. Mike Lee: The Constitutional Conservative
Senator Mike Lee of Utah is no stranger to Trump’s inner circle. As a Judiciary Committee member and former clerk to Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, Lee is well-versed in constitutional law. He supported Trump’s legal challenges to the 2020 election but, in the end, voted to certify the results. Known for his legal expertise and skepticism of federal overreach, Lee is a trusted conservative voice. If appointed, his stance on issues like election integrity and executive authority could shape Justice Department policies for years to come.
2. John Ratcliffe: The Intelligence Insider
A former Director of National Intelligence and House member from Texas, John Ratcliffe is one of Trump’s most dedicated defenders. As DNI, Ratcliffe led the intelligence community with a distinctly pro-Trump approach, making headlines for his unwavering support. His experience on the Judiciary and Intelligence Committees could make him an appealing pick for attorney general, especially as Trump prioritizes loyalty in this role. With a reputation for taking on critics during the Mueller investigation, Ratcliffe could steer the Justice Department with a protective stance toward Trump and his allies.
3. Jeffrey Clark: The Election Challenger
Jeffrey Clark, former assistant attorney general, has been in Trump’s orbit since the 2020 election, and his dedication to challenging the election outcome could appeal to Trump’s base. However, Clark’s willingness to push controversial legal boundaries has drawn criticism. He even faced a confrontation with Justice Department colleagues in 2021, who threatened to resign if Trump promoted him to attorney general. Currently facing legal scrutiny in Georgia, Clark’s contentious history with election challenges might make his confirmation tricky, but his loyalty to Trump’s vision remains a notable asset.
4. Judge Aileen Cannon: The Trump-Appointed Judge
Appointed by Trump in 2020, Judge Aileen Cannon has already shown she’s not afraid to make bold decisions. Her involvement in high-profile cases has earned her praise from Trump, especially her rulings favorable to him on classified documents. Though her decisions have faced criticism and reversals, Cannon’s track record as a staunch conservative and her refusal to back down could make her an appealing choice, even if her judicial independence comes into question.
5. Mike Davis: The Fiery Advocate
Mike Davis, former clerk to Justice Neil Gorsuch, is known for his aggressive defense of Trump, making him a wild card for the attorney general spot. Davis has a history of securing conservative judges, and he frequently speaks out against Trump’s critics. He even suggested that his outspoken nature could hinder his confirmation. His vocal support could bring a pugnacious edge to the Justice Department, though his confrontational style might meet resistance in the Senate.
6. Mark Paoletta: The Conservative Legal Veteran
With years of experience navigating Washington, Mark Paoletta is a seasoned attorney who helped guide conservative nominees through confirmation battles. Paoletta, who defended Ginni Thomas (wife of Justice Clarence Thomas) during the Jan. 6 investigation, has a reputation as a strategic legal mind, particularly within the conservative movement. His extensive government experience, from working in the Trump administration’s Office of Management and Budget to preparing nominees for confirmation, could bring stability and discretion to the role.
7. Stephen Miller: The Immigration Hardliner
If Trump wants an attorney general with a relentless approach to immigration, Stephen Miller might be the one. As a senior adviser in Trump’s White House, Miller spearheaded policies aimed at securing the U.S. border and curbing illegal immigration, including the controversial “zero tolerance” policy. Known for his fiery speeches and strict stance on immigration, Miller’s appointment would send a strong signal that Trump is prepared to make good on his promises of mass deportations and strict immigration enforcement.
What to Expect: A Justice Department Remade?
For Trump, the appointment of a loyal attorney general is paramount. Critics argue that he intends to erode the traditional independence of the Justice Department, steering it to align more closely with his political goals. Supporters counter that Trump’s desire for loyalty simply reflects a commitment to reforming what he sees as a politicized department. With candidates like Lee, Ratcliffe, and Miller, Trump appears to be favoring loyalists who will help implement a strong conservative agenda, even if that means crossing traditional boundaries.
Whether Trump’s choice for attorney general will push the Justice Department to embrace his policy goals or create a political firestorm is yet to be seen. However, with so many high-profile loyalists on the list, Trump’s next attorney general is certain to make waves—both in Washington and across the country.
