Former President Barack Obama’s remarks about the Justice Department’s prosecutions have triggered a sharp response from conservative commentator Dan Bongino, who alluded to potential investigations into Obama’s own conduct.
Obama made his comments during an appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” where he criticized the department’s recent indictments. “The White House shouldn’t be able to direct the attorney general to go around prosecuting whoever,” Obama said, referencing prosecutions involving figures including former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
The Conservative Response
Bongino responded publicly this week with veiled references to Obama’s past. “Because what Barack Obama said the other day – we’re not doing that. You know, I know things too, Mr. President,” Bongino said without elaborating on specific allegations.
Conservative commentator Mollie Hemingway amplified criticism of Obama’s remarks during a television appearance. “It’s actually reprehensible commentary from the man who instigated the Russia collusion hoax,” Hemingway said.
The Justice Department’s Defense
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the department’s prosecutions in a CBS News interview, calling Democratic criticism “extraordinarily rich.” Blanche cited Article II of the Constitution while holding a copy, stating that executive power rests with the president without the attorney general standing apart from that authority.
Blanche argued that former President Donald Trump faced years of investigations under the Biden administration, framing the current actions as a response to prior conduct.
The Indictments
Former FBI Director Comey faces an indictment in North Carolina related to a 2025 social media post that prosecutors allege constituted a threat against Trump. Comey has denied the allegations and stated he removed the post after recognizing some interpreted it as threatening.
Earlier indictments against Comey and Attorney General James were dismissed after a federal judge ruled the interim prosecutor had been improperly appointed.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Political Desk contributed to this report.
