Project 2025's Approach to Law Enforcement and Judicial Oversight
Reforming the DOJ and FBI
Project 2025 views the Department of Justice (DOJ) as a "bloated bureaucracy" overly focused on a "radical liberal agenda," especially due to its involvement in the Trump-Russia investigation led by former Special Counsel Robert Mueller. The plan calls for close oversight of the DOJ by the White House and proposes that the FBI director report directly to the president, which would mark a significant shift in the agency's independence.
Focus on Anti-Discrimination Laws
Project 2025 advocates using the DOJ's Civil Rights Division to investigate what it terms "affirmative discrimination" or "anti-white racism," referencing the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It calls for prosecuting state and local governments, educational institutions, corporations, and private employers that implement DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) or affirmative action programs, which the Project views as biased against other segments of society.
Limiting DOJ Consent Decrees
Project 2025 aims to limit the use of consent decrees-agreements made between the DOJ and local law enforcement agencies to address patterns of misconduct. By reducing these decrees, the Project seeks to limit federal intervention in local policing practices.
Shifting FBI's Focus
Under Project 2025, the FBI would take a backseat in overlapping areas with other agencies, such as drug enforcement, allowing the DEA to take the lead. The FBI would focus on high-priority crimes and national security threats, narrowing its operational scope.
Position on Capital Punishment
Project 2025 advocates for capital punishment as a tool against serious crimes, such as pedophilia, citing what it considers a national crime wave. It suggests expanding the use of capital punishment until further legislation provides additional guidance.
Law Enforcement in Washington, D.C.
Project 2025 proposes expanding the role of the Secret Service's Uniformed Division to help address crime in the District of Columbia, beyond the vicinity of the White House. This would increase federal law enforcement presence in the city, reflecting concerns about rising crime.
Military Involvement in Domestic Law Enforcement
The Project suggests using active-duty troops to address drug smuggling at the U.S.-Mexico border, invoking the Insurrection Act for military engagement in law enforcement. Although this approach was deemed controversial, related organizations, such as the Center for Renewing America, have supported it. Trump has voiced support for military involvement in immigration enforcement, crime reduction, and protest suppression in Democrat-run cities.
Conclusion
Project 2025's approach to law enforcement seeks to centralize control under the executive branch, expand DOJ oversight over DEI initiatives, limit federal intervention in local policing, and employ more severe punishment measures. These proposals reflect a vision for law enforcement that prioritizes centralization, targeted enforcement, and stricter criminal penalties.