Danielle Sassoon, a former U.S. attorney who resigned in protest against the Trump administration, made her first public appearance at a New York City Bar Association event, but the discussion largely avoided direct references to the president or his Justice Department. This cautious atmosphere reflects deep unease within the legal community, as many lawyers feel threatened by potential government retaliation. Sassoon resigned after refusing orders to drop federal corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a decision that sparked a wave of resignations among federal prosecutors in both New York and Washington, marking a significant moment of dissent akin to those seen post-Watergate.
At the event, a notable “fireside chat” session featured Sassoon and Mary Jo White, the first female U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. The dialogue emphasized Sassoon’s principled conduct and integrity during her brief tenure. Although Dabbs, a former prosecutor, acknowledged Sassoon’s brave stance, she steered clear of specific references to the Trump administration or Adams, emphasizing instead the independence of the judicial process.
Throughout the evening, while Sassoon and White discussed topics like mentorship and political pressure, their comments remained deliberately vague. White highlighted the importance of upholding ethical standards, referencing a foundational speech by Attorney General Robert Jackson that warned against targeting individuals for political reasons. Sassoon’s inquiries prompted White to express concerns about the potential “weaponization” of the DOJ under Bondi, echoing fears of political motives influencing legal actions. The session concluded without addressing the Trump administration directly, encapsulating the palpable fear and caution felt within the legal field during this politically charged climate.
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