Absolute Power Pt. I: Politization and Weaponization at the DOJ (With Gary Restaino)

Absolute Power Pt. I: Politization and Weaponization at the DOJ (With Gary Restaino)

From Set For Sentencing by Doug Passon

February 2, 2026 · 55 min · Episode 128

About this episode

The episode discusses the politicization of the DOJ and the implications of power abuses during the Trump administration, featuring insights from former US Attorney Gary Restaino.

Our founders wanted US attorneys to retain significant independence from the Department of Justice. If that happens, then experienced prosecutors have the credibility, and moral fortitude to serve as a buffer between the unfettered power of the government and the people. But the Trump administration wants absolute power. That's why we're seeing a slew of illegal US attorney appointments, installation of outsiders with zero prosecutorial experience, and the prosecutions of Trump's political enemies. Absolute power corrupts absolutely and nowhere is that more apparent than the recent arrest of journalist Don Lemon simply for exercising his first amendment rights. Therefore the public needs to see this for what it is-- the canary in the coal mine signaling America's rapid descent into authoritarian rule. More importantly, attorneys need to do more to implore courts to curb these blatant abuses of power. This is a 2-part episode. During the first hour, we talk with Gary Restaino, the former US Attorney for the District of Arizona. He gives his take on why this is not normal and why it matters. In part two, we speak with communications expert, Dr. Randy Olson, who implores us to cut…

People in this episode

Host: Doug Passon

Guest: Gary Restaino

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Department of Justice, Trump administration, Steve Bannon

Places: Arizona

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