New DOJ Civil Division Director Sets Conservative Priorities
Following his confirmation, the new director of the Department of Justice’s civil division, Brett Shumate, promptly sent out a memo to staff. He emphasized a focus on certain conservative priorities, including tackling anti-Semitism and reevaluating policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In this internal communication, obtained by Fox News Digital, Shumate directed lawyers in the DOJ’s largest division to prioritize investigations and legal actions related to tightening restrictions on transgender healthcare and addressing individuals who obtained naturalization unlawfully.
Moreover, the civil division is responsible for representing the government in various judicial matters, especially non-criminal cases. This encompasses numerous lawsuits from former President Donald Trump, pushing the envelope on discussions around presidential authority during his time in office.
Trump’s Investigation Orders
Meanwhile, civil division attorneys have been engaged in litigation linked to Trump’s policies, addressing topics such as tariffs and the issue of birthright citizenship.
Shumate, who was confirmed strictly along party lines, is recognized as a loyalist to Trump. His previous experience includes working as a partner at Jones Day, a firm that represented Trump during his election campaign, and serving as the leading official in the civil sector during the first Trump administration.
The memo seemingly sets the tone for Shumate’s vision for the civil division, suggesting a commitment to align closely with Trump’s agenda and those of other key figures like Pam Bondy, the Florida Attorney General.
Notably, the department is expected to work in conjunction with the Civil Rights Division on anti-DEI initiatives, responding to Trump’s frequent criticisms of these policies as discriminatory.
In his memo, Shumate stated that the civil division will actively pursue legal actions against what it views as discriminatory practices in the private sector.
This story is ongoing, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
