AG Merrick Garland delivers farewell speech at DOJ
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)— Attorney General Merrick Garland delivered his farewell address at the Department of Justice on Thursday. During his remarks, Garland emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.
“We know that only an independent Justice Department can ensure that the facts and the law alone will determine whether a person is investigated or prosecuted,” Garland said.
Garland mentioned the DOJ’s work to charge more than 1,500 people for criminal conduct that occurred during and leading up to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.
“You brought to justice those who kicked, punched, beat and tased law enforcement officers who were protecting the Capitol that day,” Garland said. “You pursued accountability for that attack on our democracy wherever it led.”
Garland, who at times appeared to get emotional, told the audience he is proud of the work the DOJ has done and said he would miss his role as attorney general.
“Your job is to do what is right, nothing more and nothing less,” Garland said.
Garland’s remarks come as President-elect Donald Trump is set to be sworn in on Monday. The president-elect has been critical of the DOJ claiming some of the cases brought against him were politically motivated.
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to take over Garland’s position under his administration. She still needs to be confirmed by the Senate.