Adam Schleifer left the DOJ to unsuccessfully run for Congress as an anti-Trump firebrand in 2020. He returned to the DOJ and, after being fired by the Trump Administration last month, he wants his job back as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Los Angeles.
A quasi-judicial agency that handles disputes between federal employees and their employers. Schleifer was fired from his position as an Assistant U. S. Attorney after years of service, and he is now attempting to regain his job. His dismissal comes in the context of his strong anti-Trump sentiments expressed during his 2020 congressional campaign, where he stated that “Donald Trump must be convicted and removed from office” and expressed support for Joe Biden.
After losing his congressional bid, Schleifer returned to the DOJ, only to be fired at the end of March 2025 while handling a case against Andrew Wiederhorn, the CEO of FAT Brands, which includes companies like Johnny Rockets and Fatburger. Reports suggest that his colleagues believed his involvement in this case, which involved fraud charges against Wiederhorn, might have contributed to the firing. Wiederhorn is noted to be a donor to Trump, adding complexity to the situation.
Upon being fired, Schleifer reportedly expressed confusion, questioning whether the firing notice was a hoax. Details from the New York Times indicate that the firing came soon after a right-wing activist called for his dismissal based on his past criticisms of Trump. The timing of these events raises questions about the motivations behind his firing.
In his congressional campaign, Schleifer invested over $4 million and publicly took left-wing positions, including support for abolishing the Electoral College and implementing a carbon tax. He was vocal about his views, especially during times of national unrest, and criticized the Trump administration's actions, including Attorney General William Barr's handling of various cases.
As part of his effort to regain his position, Schleifer has filed a complaint with the Merit Systems Protection Board, which addresses employment disputes for federal workers. His case continues to unfold, with his background and controversial statements during his congressional campaign now under examination to determine the legitimacy of his firing and the possible implications of political bias in federal employment decisions.
Schleifer’s career trajectory raises broader questions about political affiliations in the workplace, especially in politically charged environments like the DOJ. His public opposition to Trump is now cited by some as a potential factor in his termination, while supporters argue it should not impact his professional role as a prosecutor. Ultimately, Schleifer's situation underscores the intersection of politics and law within the government, particularly regarding personnel decisions influenced by political leanings.
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