Here’s what happened.
Republicans erupted on social media after a video of Attorney General Merrick Garland walking out of the Department of Justice (DOJ) went viral. The video, posted on X (formerly Twitter), showed Garland leaving the DOJ in a celebratory mood, thanking staffers for their support. However, rather than praise, the clip sparked widespread condemnation from GOP leaders and conservative figures.
Rep. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.) was among the loudest critics, expressing relief that Garland’s time as attorney general was over. He described Garland’s tenure as one marked by the weaponization of the DOJ against political opponents. Many conservatives share this sentiment, arguing that Garland’s Justice Department had been used to target and harass those who disagreed with the Biden administration.
Garland’s handling of high-profile investigations was a focal point of Republican criticism. One of the most contentious issues was the investigation into former President Donald Trump’s alleged mishandling of classified documents. Garland’s decision to authorize the controversial FBI raid on Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence drew intense backlash from conservatives, who viewed it as a politically motivated move. Even after a Florida judge dismissed the case in 2024, many Republicans remained convinced that Garland had overstepped his bounds to settle political scores.
Further criticism was leveled at Garland for his treatment of religious communities. Conservative groups accused him of targeting people of faith, particularly Catholics, in an effort to suppress dissent. Additionally, reports surfaced suggesting that President Biden regretted appointing Garland as attorney general, believing that he had been too aggressive in pursuing investigations into his son, Hunter Biden.
Conservative voices also slammed Garland for his approach to school board protests, with many arguing that his decision to direct the FBI to monitor concerned parents was an overreach. His critics argue that Garland’s actions turned the DOJ into a political tool, undermining the agency’s credibility.
With Garland’s departure, Republicans are looking to Pam Bondi, President Trump’s pick to replace him. Bondi, if confirmed, will face the challenge of restoring the DOJ’s reputation, particularly among conservatives who feel that it was politicized during Garland’s tenure. For many Republicans, Garland’s exit signals a fresh start and the hope of a more impartial Justice Department in the future.
WATCH:
Thank you for your service, Mr. Attorney General! pic.twitter.com/Lp9cbtuLQT
— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) January 18, 2025