Trump DOJ Order on Eric Adams Case Triggers Senior Resignations

In a significant upheaval within the Justice Department, six senior officials, including Manhattan's top federal prosecutor, resigned instead of complying with an order to dismiss corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The order was issued by Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, who argued that continuing the case would hinder Adams' ability to assist with President Trump's immigration policies. U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon, who was appointed by Trump, criticized the directive as inconsistent with her duty to pursue justice impartially, and described meetings where Adams' lawyers suggested a quid pro quo regarding the case. The resignations are reminiscent of the 'Saturday Night Massacre' from the Nixon era, highlighting ongoing tensions within the DOJ regarding political influence over prosecutions. The case against Adams has now been reassigned to the DOJ's criminal division, which remains resistant to dropping the charges. This situation underscores concerns about the politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration.