Former President Barack Obama’s criticism of the Justice Department’s recent prosecutions has prompted a sharp rebuke from conservative commentator Dan Bongino, who suggested the former president could face his own scrutiny.
Obama made his comments during an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” where he argued that the White House should not direct the attorney general to prosecute political opponents. “The White House shouldn’t be able to direct the attorney general to go around prosecuting whoever,” Obama said.
The former president’s remarks referenced recent Justice Department indictments involving Trump critics, including former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and former National Security Adviser John Bolton.
Bongino’s Response
Bongino responded during a public appearance this week, hinting at potential investigations into Obama’s past actions. “Because what Barack Obama said the other day – we’re not doing that. You know, I know things too, Mr. President,” Bongino said without providing specifics.
His comments centered on allegations related to the Russia investigation and the 2016 transition period, fueling speculation among Trump allies about possible future investigations.
The Administration’s Defense
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the Justice Department’s actions in an interview with CBS News, calling Democratic criticism “extraordinarily rich.” Blanche argued that Trump himself faced years of investigations under the Biden administration.
Blanche cited Article II of the Constitution, stating that executive power is vested in the president. “Article Two says, ‘the executive power shall be vested in the President of the United States of America.’ It does not say that the Attorney General stands off to the side,” he said while holding a copy of the Constitution.
Legal Developments
Comey faces an indictment in North Carolina related to a 2025 social media post, which prosecutors allege constituted a threat against Trump. Comey has denied the allegations and said he removed the post after realizing some interpreted it as threatening.
Earlier indictments against Comey and James were dismissed after a federal judge ruled that the interim prosecutor had been improperly appointed.
Conservative Pushback
Conservatives have increasingly highlighted allegations surrounding the origins of the Russia investigation during the transition period. Mollie Hemingway criticized Obama during a television appearance, accusing him of orchestrating what she called the “Russia collusion hoax.”
“It’s actually reprehensible commentary from the man who instigated the Russia collusion hoax,” Hemingway said.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Political Desk contributed to this report.
