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Welcome to The Logoff: President Donald Trump’s marketing campaign of retribution in opposition to his perceived political enemies is escalating after the Thursday night indictment of former FBI Director James Comey.
What occurred? Comey was indicted within the Japanese District of Virginia on two fees: mendacity to Congress and obstructing a congressional continuing.
What’s occurring within the Japanese District of Virginia? The costs in opposition to Comey had been introduced by interim US Legal professional Lindsey Halligan, previously a private lawyer to Trump.
Halligan ended up with that job after the earlier US lawyer resigned final week beneath stress for refusing to indict one other Trump foe, New York Legal professional Common Letitia James; the subsequent day, Trump endorsed Halligan in a social media submit addressed to US Legal professional Common Pam Bondi.
What occurs subsequent? Trump has made it clear that he sees the Comey indictment as solely the beginning of his retaliation marketing campaign, warning Friday that “there’ll be others.” Within the aforementioned Saturday submit to Bondi, he wrote:
What about Comey, Adam ‘Shifty’ Schiff, Leticia??? … We are able to’t delay any longer, it’s killing our fame and credibility. They impeached me twice, and indicted me (5 occasions!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!
On Thursday, the New York Occasions additionally reported that Justice Division management is directing an effort to prosecute George Soros’s Open Society Basis, a significant supporter of pro-democracy initiatives and liberal causes, on fees doubtlessly together with materials help of terrorism.
What’s the large image? Trump has lengthy referred to as for his opponents to be investigated and charged, however now it’s really taking place. It’s doable there are issues we nonetheless don’t know in regards to the Comey indictment — however from every little thing we do know, it’s a grave abuse of energy by Trump and a critical assault on the rule of legislation.
And with that, it’s time to sign off…
Right here’s a enjoyable science story to finish the week: What do fish sound like underwater? Scientists (and the Washington Submit) are trying into it, and their findings might have broader implications for the well being of coral reefs and extra. You’ll be able to learn the Submit’s story by way of a present hyperlink right here — take pleasure in and we’ll see you again right here on Monday!