Slate News Political Gabfest - The “Justice Department is Dire“
Feb 20, 2025
This week features Marc Dunkelman, a Fellow at Brown University's Watson Institute and author of "Why Nothing Works." He dives into the troubling interplay between political corruption and ethics, particularly regarding NYC Mayor Eric Adams and his controversial dealings. The conversation covers how authoritarian tactics shape governance and the dire need for accountability. Dunkelman also discusses systemic reforms necessary to tackle the evolving challenges facing our government, especially in light of modern data privacy issues.
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Prosecutor Resignations
- Seven prosecutors resigned rather than drop charges against NYC Mayor Eric Adams.
- This was due to a corrupt bargain between the Trump administration and Adams.
Justice Department Interference
- Interference with Justice Department norms is worse than predicted.
- The entrenched belief in the department's norms was overly optimistic.
Adams Case vs. Corporate Deferred Prosecution
- Deferred prosecution agreements with corporations are different from the Eric Adams case.
- This is because Adams, a public official, made a political deal unrelated to the charges.
