Top Justice Department Prosecutor Resigns Amid Turmoil in Trump Conspiracy Probe
Justice Department investigation of Trump critics faces setbacks after lead prosecutor’s abrupt resignation following clashes with AG Blanche.
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Joe diGenova, the lead prosecutor overseeing a high-profile Justice Department investigation into former officials critical of President Donald Trump, abruptly resigned on September 10, 2026, following escalating tensions with Attorney General Todd Blanche. The probe, based in South Florida and targeting figures such as former CIA Director John Brennan, has been a top priority for President Trump but now faces potential delays amid internal conflicts.
Disputes Over Resources and Investigation Scope
DiGenova’s resignation came a day after a tense phone conversation with Attorney General Blanche, sources close to the matter revealed. Central to the dispute was diGenova’s insistence on blocking Justice Department lawyers from Washington to assist the South Florida team, as well as his demand for a secure SCIF facility at the Fort Pierce office to handle the most sensitive classified materials. Justice officials directed diGenova to use an existing SCIF at a nearby FBI office instead, deepening the rift.
Additionally, diGenova requested an expanded legal team to support the probe, a request that Justice headquarters reportedly denied. While Justice Department officials maintain diGenova was not denied necessary resources, the disagreement underscored broader clashes about the investigation’s pace and direction.
Broadening the Investigation Beyond Brennan
Since taking over the probe in April, diGenova expanded the investigation beyond initial targets like Brennan, who faces accusations of making false statements to Congress. The inquiry now encompasses several of President Trump’s political adversaries involved in past investigations, including the FBI’s 2016 Russia election interference probe and federal cases tied to the January 6 Capitol riot and Mar-a-Lago classified documents.
The investigation has intensified recently, with numerous subpoenas issued for documents and grand jury testimonies. Mid- to senior-level former government officials have reported contacts from diGenova’s team regarding the FBI’s role in the 2016 election interference investigations.
Internal Justice Department Turmoil and Impact on Timeline
Career prosecutors initially running the investigation expressed concerns about insufficient evidence to bring charges, leading to the removal of Maria Medetis Long in April. DiGenova’s appointment marked a shift toward a more aggressive pursuit of charges, aligning with President Trump’s priorities.
DiGenova’s departure occurs as the investigation was presenting a witness before a grand jury, signaling active progress. However, his resignation may delay anticipated indictments that officials had hoped to announce as early as September 2026. Despite the shakeup, Justice Department sources remain confident the team will regain momentum under new leadership.
DiGenova’s Reflection on His Role
DiGenova declined to comment extensively beyond remarks made last week, emphasizing his long career as a prosecutor and commitment to thorough case-building using traditional methods—witnesses and evidence—which requires time. His abrupt exit highlights the complex internal dynamics shaping one of the most politically sensitive investigations in recent Justice Department history.
The probe’s future trajectory remains uncertain as Justice officials regroup. For President Trump, the inquiry into his longtime critics remains a key component of his administration’s broader legal and political strategy.
