TLDR;
This video discusses a recent order by Chief Judge Jeb Booseberg of the District of Columbia, who criticized Donald Trump and the Department of Justice for pursuing a baseless criminal investigation against Federal Reserve Chairman J. Powell. The judge suggests the investigation was an attempt to pressure Powell into lowering interest rates or resigning. The video highlights key points from the judge's order, including the lack of evidence against Powell and Trump's history of animosity towards him.
- Judge Jeb Booseberg rebukes Trump and DOJ for a "fake" criminal investigation against Fed Chair J. Powell.
- The investigation is suspected to be an attempt to pressure Powell into lowering interest rates or resigning.
- The judge cites a "mountain of evidence" suggesting the investigation was politically motivated and unsubstantiated.
Introduction [0:00]
Michael Popok introduces breaking news regarding a scathing order from Chief Judge Jeb Booseberg of the District of Columbia. The order criticizes Donald Trump and the Department of Justice for initiating a fake criminal investigation against Federal Reserve Chairman J. Powell. The alleged criminal conduct was related to the renovation of Federal Reserve buildings. Popok emphasizes the judge's courage in fighting back against what he sees as an oppressive action.
Judge Booseberg's Scathing Order [1:13]
Judge Jeb Booseberg, known for previously holding the Trump administration in criminal contempt, issued a 26-page order. In his conclusion, Booseberg states that a "mountain of evidence" suggests the subpoenas were served to pressure Chairman Powell into lowering interest rates or resigning. The judge characterizes this as extortion, noting the government has produced virtually no evidence to suspect Powell of a crime, deeming their justifications pretextual and quashing the subpoenas.
Trump's Attacks on Chairman Powell [2:31]
The judge's memorandum opinion begins by highlighting Donald Trump's attacks on Chairman Powell, citing Trump's Truth Social posts where he criticizes Powell as "too late," "too angry," "too stupid," and "too political." Trump claimed Powell was costing the country trillions of dollars. Despite these attacks, Trump was unable to influence interest rates through social media, leading him to hint at other options to remove Powell. The criminal investigation into Powell, focusing on the renovation of two 100-year-old Federal Reserve buildings, followed these statements.
Improper Purpose of Subpoenas [3:59]
The judge focuses on determining whether the subpoenas were issued for a proper purpose, concluding they were not. He finds abundant evidence that the subpoenas' primary purpose was to harass and pressure Powell into yielding to the president's demands or resigning. The judge emphasizes that he gave the government an opportunity to present any evidence of fraud but they failed to provide any credible evidence.
Trump's Public Criticism and Powell's Response [4:48]
The video includes a clip of Donald Trump criticizing J. Powell for being "billions of dollars over budget" and questioning his competence and honesty. Following the announcement of the criminal investigation, Chairman Powell defended himself, stating that the investigation was a result of the president being upset with policy and making false claims of corruption. Powell asserted the Federal Reserve would continue to set interest rates based on economic conditions, not political pressure.
The Pope Firm [7:15]
Michael Popok announces the launch of his new law firm, The Pope Firm, dedicated to obtaining justice for those injured or damaged by life-altering events. The firm focuses on securing high-dollar recoveries for clients involved in catastrophic auto accidents, personal injuries, medical malpractice, employment harassment, and civil rights violations. The Pope Firm can be contacted at 1-877-POP-AF or through their website for a free case evaluation.
DOJ's Pattern of Targeting Trump's Adversaries [9:02]
The judge notes that Trump has directed his anger at Chair Powell for years, berating and threatening him to lower rates. The judge draws a parallel between the treatment of Powell and other perceived adversaries of Trump, such as Leticia James, James Comey, and Adam Schiff, noting that being seen as Trump's adversary has become risky. He suggests the Department of Justice has a pattern of targeting those who are out of favor with the president.
Trump's Attempt to Embarrass Powell [10:05]
The video shows a clip of Donald Trump attempting to embarrass J. Powell by presenting him with information about cost overruns during a construction site visit. However, Powell corrects Trump, explaining that the increased cost included the renovation of a third building.
Senator Tillis's Stance and Judge Booseberg's Decision [11:27]
Senator Tom Tillis has stated he will block any new appointments to the Federal Reserve by Donald Trump until the investigation is over. Judge Booseberg emphasizes that the Federal Reserve contends the subpoenas were issued to harass and pressure Powell to lower interest rates or resign, which he deems an improper purpose. The judge concludes that the dominant purpose of the subpoenas was to harass Powell and pressure him to lower rates, thus serving an improper purpose.
Lack of Evidence and Quashing of Subpoenas [12:58]
The White House launched a campaign to investigate Powell, with William Py suggesting Congress investigate Powell for political bias and potential crimes. Subsequently, the U.S. Attorney's office opened a grand jury investigation. The judge reminds everyone that the Federal Reserve has independent inspectors general with full access to all construction-related documents, and they have not reported any crimes. Despite being given the opportunity to present evidence of crimes, the government failed to provide any credible reason to suspect suspicious activity. As a result, the judge quashes the subpoenas, effectively ending the criminal investigation.
Conclusion and Call to Action [14:47]
The judge unseals his order and related documents to ensure the public is aware of the situation. Popok praises the judge for protecting democracy. He encourages viewers to subscribe to the Legal AF YouTube channel and the Legal AF Substack for more in-depth legal analysis and content. The Legal AF Substack includes court filings, oral arguments, daily roundups, new reporting, interviews, and ad-free versions of podcasts and hot takes.
