The first prominent resignation from the Trump administration following the midterm elections has come from the Justice Department. Harmeet Dhillon, who led its Civil Rights Division, is leaving the post.
During her 18 months in the role, Dhillon reshaped the division’s priorities, emphasizing Second Amendment and religious rights, alleged discrimination against Asian and white students at colleges, and opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.
Attorney General Todd Blanche said Dhillon had led the division with conviction and defended Americans’ civil liberties while enforcing the law. He thanked her for her service and wished her well.
Although the timing prompted speculation that the election results played a part, Dhillon said she had decided to leave weeks earlier. She said White House chief of staff Susie Wiles asked her to wait until after the midterms to announce it.
Dhillon said she plans to return to private practice and believes she has accomplished what she set out to do at the division. “We changed it, and that’s what we came here to do,” she said. “And it’s done.”
Hundreds of employees left the Civil Rights Division during her tenure. Dhillon described the departures as difficult for some staff, saying there had been tears, frustration, and considerable drama.
Asked whether President Donald Trump might pardon her or other administration officials if Democrats launch investigations, Dhillon said she had never discussed a pardon with him. She added that, in her view, she had done nothing that would require one, while noting the decision would be up to the president.
