Attorney General Merrick Garland warned on Thursday that criticizing the Department of Justice (DOJ) is both “dangerous and outrageous.” His comments, made during a speech at DOJ headquarters, were aimed at what he described as escalating attacks on the department, driven by conspiracy theories and falsehoods.
Garland’s warning has sparked concerns that the attorney general is trying to silence dissenting voices. Critics say that Garland’s remarks are designed to protect his agency from scrutiny, especially in light of the DOJ’s selective enforcement of the law.
The department has faced backlash for prosecuting peaceful pro-life activists while ignoring attacks on churches and pregnancy centers after the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Garland’s claim that the DOJ does not engage in politically motivated prosecutions has been met with skepticism, particularly given the department’s handling of cases involving President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump.
Conservative commentators quickly reacted to Garland’s speech, accusing him of trying to suppress free speech and shield the DOJ from criticism. Many believe that Garland’s comments reflect a growing trend of government officials attempting to shut down public discourse.
As the election approaches, Garland’s remarks could fuel further debate about the importance of free speech in holding government agencies accountable.
