The Attorney General of the United States, Merrick Garland, recently addressed the 85th Annual U.S. Attorneys Conference, expressing gratitude to the over 115,000 public servants of the Department of Justice for their dedication and service to the American people. He commended their efforts in seeking justice for victims, combating hate crimes, protecting communities from various threats, and upholding democratic values.
Garland highlighted the historical significance of the Justice Department's commitment to fairness and impartiality, citing the principles outlined by former Attorney General Robert Jackson in 1939. These principles emphasize the importance of prosecutors exercising their authority with humility, seeking truth, and serving the law rather than partisan interests.
He underscored the department's ongoing efforts to uphold these principles, including policies to safeguard its independence from political influence, guidelines for FBI investigations, and protections for civil liberties. Garland emphasized the need for equal treatment under the law, regardless of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation.
Throughout his four-decade career in the Justice Department and the judiciary, Garland witnessed the evolution of these norms and pledged to strengthen them during his tenure as Attorney General. Under his leadership, the department implemented measures to prevent inappropriate influences on law enforcement decisions and enhance compliance with legal standards.
Garland's address reaffirmed the department's commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring that law enforcement remains independent from political agendas. He emphasized the critical role of career employees in upholding these principles and maintaining public trust in the Justice Department.
