As reported by Fox News, The House Judiciary Committee, led by Chairman Jim Jordan, is launching an investigation into the Justice Department's decision to release a manifesto written by Ryan Routh, the individual accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump.
The manifesto, which includes a $150,000 bounty offer for Trump's assassination, was made public in a court filing earlier this week, raising concerns about how and why this information was disclosed.
The release of this sensitive document has raised eyebrows, particularly given the DOJ's usual stance on withholding such information. Chairman Jordan expressed his concerns in a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, questioning the department's decision to publicize the manifesto and its potential consequences.
The Justice Department's decision to release Routh's manifesto marks a significant departure from its typical approach to handling such sensitive materials. In his letter, Chairman Jordan pointed out that the DOJ has generally refrained from releasing details about manifestos written by perpetrators of high-profile crimes during Garland's tenure.
This shift in policy has prompted the House Judiciary Committee to scrutinize the motivations behind the release. The committee is particularly concerned about the potential for the manifesto to inspire copycat offenders or provide a blueprint for future attackers.
Jordan's letter emphasizes the DOJ's own stated policy that public access to such documents can contribute to further attacks by sparking intense interest and study among potential offenders. This apparent contradiction between policy and action forms a key part of the committee's inquiry.
The release of the manifesto has raised serious concerns about public safety and the potential for unintended consequences. Chairman Jordan warned that broadcasting the attempted assassin's bounty on Trump could potentially "cause additional harm to occur."
Furthermore, the timing of the release has come under scrutiny. Jordan noted that the DOJ's decision to publicize the manifesto coincides with its ongoing prosecution of former President Trump, raising questions about potential political motivations behind the release.
The committee's investigation aims to uncover the reasoning behind this decision and assess its potential impact on public safety and ongoing legal proceedings.
In response to these concerns, the House Judiciary Committee has issued specific demands to the Justice Department. Chairman Jordan has requested all documents and communications referring to the FBI's May 2023 "Protection of Legacy Tokens" memo, as well as all records related to the decision to release Routh's letter.
These demands underscore the committee's commitment to transparency and accountability in this matter. The DOJ has been given until October 9 at 5 p.m. to provide the requested information, setting a clear deadline for compliance.
The investigation comes at a time of heightened tension surrounding threats against public figures, particularly former President Trump. Garland himself acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating:
The Justice Department is committed to using the full force of our authorities to thoroughly investigate every lead and ensure accountability into this matter. Our nation has now experienced two assassination attempts against the former president in just the last three months. That is abhorrent.
The House Judiciary Committee's investigation into the DOJ's release of Ryan Routh's manifesto has brought to light significant concerns about public safety and departmental protocol. The release of a document containing a $150,000 bounty on former President Trump has raised questions about potential copycat threats and the DOJ's motivations. As the October 9 deadline approaches, the committee's demands for transparency and accountability underscore the gravity of this unusual situation in the realm of national security and political discourse.
