The mass exodus from the Justice Department has sparked a gold rush for law firms, legal groups, and political campaigns. This unprecedented turnover has left a void in the agency's institutional memory and expertise, but it has also created a unique opportunity for those seeking to hire talented ex-prosecutors.
The Great Justice Department Exodus
Michael Romano, a former federal prosecutor, has found himself in a new role, answering questions as a witness at congressional hearings. He has become a key figure in the debate surrounding the Trump administration's handling of Justice Department prosecutors, particularly those involved in cases related to President Trump and the January 6th Capitol riot.
Romano's testimony has been a powerful statement, warning of the potential threat to democracy posed by the administration's actions. He has emphasized the importance of holding those accountable for their actions on that fateful day, stating, "There were no small crimes on January 6th."
But here's where it gets controversial...
The mass departures from the Justice Department have had a ripple effect, with private firms, local prosecutor's offices, and political campaigns reaping the benefits. With over 5,000 employees leaving in the first year of Mr. Trump's second administration, these organizations have capitalized on the wave of experienced prosecutors seeking new opportunities.
A Treasure Trove for Talent
Romano, an elite prosecutor with an impeccable record against Capitol riot defendants, has joined a private law firm. He has become a go-to witness, providing insights into the impact of the riot and defending the government's prosecution of those accused of misdemeanors.
His former colleague, Greg Rosen, also left the Justice Department and now works for a prominent D.C. law firm. Rosen believes that speaking out is not a partisan act but a quintessentially American one, highlighting the importance of raising concerns when something seems amiss.
The D.C. U.S. Attorney's Office, where Romano previously worked, experienced significant turnover in 2025. The office faced attacks from Mr. Trump over its January 6th prosecutions, leading to a staffing shortage and a need for additional prosecutors.
Challenging the System
The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division has also seen a wave of resignations and retirements, with notable losses like Sydney Foster, a former acting chief of the Appellate Section. Foster has joined the Washington Litigation Group, a nonprofit legal organization dedicated to curbing government overreach.
The group's president, Tom Green, believes that Foster's extensive experience makes her a perfect fit for their mission, which includes challenging controversial decisions made by the Trump administration.
Foster agrees that this is a critical moment for democracy, stating, "We are focusing on bringing the most impactful cases."
The Washington Litigation Group is involved in several high-profile lawsuits, including challenges to the renaming of the Kennedy Center and the legitimacy of certain appointments made by the Trump administration.
A New Beginning
Other Justice Department alumni have found new roles in local government and political campaigns. Stacey Young, the founder of Justice Connection, an organization supporting ousted staff, believes that nonprofits and firms are taking advantage of the Justice Department's decision to drive out talented career employees.
In Minnesota, two former attorneys have launched their own private firm, focusing on white-collar defense and international investigations. One of them, Joe Thompson, formerly the acting U.S. attorney, has already landed a high-profile client, journalist Don Lemon.
Additionally, former Justice Department prosecutors are running for federal office, with Ryan Crosswell declaring his candidacy for a House seat in Pennsylvania. Crosswell has received significant support, including endorsements from VoteVets, a political action group.
J.P. Cooney, another former prosecutor, has also announced his intention to run for a House seat in Virginia. Cooney believes that his firing by Donald Trump is a badge of honor for standing up for the rule of law and the Constitution.
The early response to Cooney's campaign has been positive, with over $200,000 raised in the initial days.
As the Justice Department continues to face challenges, the mass departures have created a unique landscape, offering new opportunities for those seeking to make a difference. The question remains: Will these talented individuals be able to effect change from their new positions? The answer lies in the hands of those who have taken on these new roles and the impact they can have on the legal and political landscape.
