On February 4, 2025, two groups of FBI agents filed lawsuits against the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), challenging its efforts to compile a list of employees involved in investigations related to former President Donald Trump, including the January 6 Capitol riot and the handling of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago.
The agents, who filed the lawsuits anonymously, argue that the DOJ’s actions are retaliatory and could lead to mass firings. They express concern that the list might be published, exposing them and their families to potential retribution from individuals pardoned by President Trump.
The lawsuits also highlight fears of political retaliation, noting that the DOJ’s request includes names, offices, and titles of approximately 5,000 employees identified by unique codes instead of names. The agents are particularly worried about threats and harassment, especially given President Trump’s history of targeting law enforcement officials. This legal action shows just how tense things between the current administration and federal law enforcement agencies are, raising concerns about the potential impact on the independence and morale of agents involved in politically sensitive investigations.
