WASHINGTON, DC — The Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation into E. Jean Carroll, who was awarded $88.3 million in civil judgments against Trump for sexual abuse and defamation. In response, the Not Above the Law coalition’s co-chairs – Lisa Gilbert, Co-President of Public Citizen; Praveen Fernandes, Vice President of the Constitutional Accountability Center; Kelsey Herbert, Campaign Director at MoveOn; and Brett Edkins, Managing Director for Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America – issued the following statement:
“This administration has spent months weaponizing the Justice Department to target Trump’s perceived political enemies. Now the administration has turned its corrupt and unprincipled focus on E. Jean Carroll, a private citizen who sued Donald Trump, won her cases before multiple juries, and is now paying the price. Under this administration, even legal victories seemingly don’t protect you.
“This Justice Department has made clear it will prioritize the president’s interests over citizens’ rights, wielding federal prosecutorial power against anyone who dares to hold Trump accountable. E. Jean Carroll and the American people deserve better than an administration that uses every tool at its disposal to silence those who challenge its authority.”
For questions about our work to hold Trump accountable or to request an interview with a Not Above the Law coalition leader, please email press@focalpointstrategygroup.com.