U.S. Attorney General Fires DOJ Employee Over Disrespectful Conduct
U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced on August 29, 2023, that an employee of the Department of Justice (DOJ) has been terminated due to inappropriate conduct towards National Guard service members in Washington, D.C. Bondi stated unequivocally, “If you oppose our mission and disrespect law enforcement—you will NO LONGER work at DOJ.” This statement was shared through a post on social media platform X, reinforcing her commitment to maintaining respect and support for law enforcement personnel.
The employee in question, Elizabeth Baxter, served as a paralegal in the DOJ’s environmental defense section. The decision to terminate her employment was first reported by Miranda Devine, a columnist for the New York Post, who obtained an internal memorandum detailing the termination.
Details of the Termination
According to the memorandum, Baxter’s termination was effective immediately. Bondi further noted that Baxter may have the right to appeal her removal through the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) within 30 days of the effective date of the action. This provision allows employees to contest their dismissal under certain circumstances, ensuring that due process is observed even in cases of misconduct.
The incident that led to Baxter’s firing was not specified in detail, but it reflects a broader commitment by the DOJ to uphold standards of conduct among its employees, particularly regarding interactions with military and law enforcement personnel. Bondi’s strong stance underscores the administration’s focus on respect for those who serve and protect the nation.
This action comes amid ongoing discussions about the role and treatment of service members, especially in urban areas where tensions may arise due to differing views on law enforcement and military operations. The DOJ’s decisive action in this case sets a precedent for accountability and reinforces the importance of respect within public service roles.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this termination will impact the workplace culture within the DOJ and whether it will prompt additional discussions regarding employee conduct and respect for law enforcement agencies.
