Former Attorney General William Barr criticized Donald Trump’s post-election behavior, calling it “reprehensible.” Barr dismissed claims that the Justice Department was also “reprehensible” in its recent indictment of the former president.
In an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins earlier this week, Barr argued that the DOJ has a “legitimate case” but listed “reasons not to bring it” as Trump faces four felony counts related to his attempts to undermine the 2020 election.
During an interview with Fox News’ Martha MacCallum on Friday, Barr further explained his argument, criticizing the “onslaught of attacks” claiming that bringing the case is an “abuse.” He also rejected claims that the indictment violates Trump’s First Amendment rights.
“I think it’s a legitimate case from a legal standpoint, responding to a very serious misconduct,” Barr stated.
Barr clarified that the case is not about interfering in the election, and criticized the critics of the indictment, saying, “What was reprehensible was the conduct after the election.”
“And it’s perfectly expected that the Department of Justice would approach it the way it would approach something like this, which is under the laws against defrauding the United States and obstructing proceedings,” Barr added.
Earlier in the interview, Barr emphasized that all cases are at the discretion of the attorney general. He also compared the divisiveness of the case to the potential outcomes before shifting the conversation to Hunter Biden.
Some Republicans have claimed that the charges against Trump are meant to divert attention from President Joe Biden’s son, who faces federal gun and tax charges.
“Here you are being aggressive against President Trump. I’m not saying it’s improper to bring the case, but it’s an aggressive move compared to the lenient treatment of Hunter Biden, and I think that’s very divisive in the country,” Barr expressed.