Acting Attorney General Directs Dept. of Justice to Not Defend Trump’s Muslim Ban

‘For as Long as I Am the Acting Attorney General, the DOJ Will Not Present Arguments in Defense of the Executive Order’

Acting U.S. Attorney General Sally Yates has ordered the Department of Justice to not defend in court President Donald Trump’s Muslim ban. The New York Times reports that Yates, who is a holdover from the Obama administration, does not believe the executive order is constitutional.

“I am responsible for ensuring that the positions we take in court remain consistent with this institution’s solemn obligation to always seek justice and stand for what is right,” Yates wrote in a letter to DOJ lawyers, the Times reports. “At present, I am not convinced that the defense of the executive order is consistent with these responsibilities nor am I convinced that the executive order is lawful.”

The paper notes Yates’ position is “largely symbolic,” as Senator Jeff Sessions is expected to be confirmed as Trump’s Attorney General, but adds that the decision to not defend the order “highlights the deep divide at the Justice Department and elsewhere in the government over Mr. Trump’s order.”

“For as long as I am the acting attorney general, the Department of Justice will not present arguments in defense of the executive order, unless and until I become convinced that it is appropriate to do so,” Yates stated.

Here’s CNN’s report:

This is a breaking news and developing story. Details may change. This story will be updated, and NCRM will likely publish follow-up stories on this news. Stay tuned and refresh for updates. 

Image by FBI via Flickr