On Wednesday, the Department of Justice (DoJ) announced the firing of Michael Ben’Ary, the top national security prosecutor in the Eastern District of Virginia. This decision follows investigative reporter Julie Kelly’s public criticism of Ben’Ary, branding him as a major advisor to Lisa Monaco. Monaco, known for her ties to the Obama administration, has a controversial history involving investigations closely associated with former President Trump.
Monaco’s role included significant involvement in efforts labeled as the Trump-Russia collusion investigation. Reports indicate that she participated in secretive meetings intended to strategize against Trump during the 2016 election cycle. Trump’s administration took a stand against her, revoking her security clearance earlier in 2025. The timelines suggest that political motivations run deep within the recent high-profile firings at the DoJ.
As Ken Dilanian noted on MSNBC, “The DoJ fired the top national security prosecutor in the Eastern District of Virginia a few hours after MAGA activist Julie Kelly denounced him on X.” This statement highlights a trend observed in recent personnel changes within the Justice Department—prompted by public pressure and media scrutiny. Dilanian points out that the circumstances of Ben’Ary’s firing do not relate to the case involving James Comey, a claim reiterated by multiple sources.
Julie Kelly has been vocally critical of officials she views as entrenched in a partisan agenda. In her rebuttal to Dilanian’s portrayal of her influence, she stated, “I’m not just a ‘MAGA activist,’ I’m a reporter doing the f*cking job you establishment DOJ sycophants refuse to do.” Her words underline a growing frustration with what some see as a lack of accountability within the DoJ, particularly against officials connected with the previous administration.
This firing isn’t isolated. It follows President Trump’s earlier dismissal of Erik Siebert, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. Siebert faced criticism for his refusal to pursue charges against various political figures, including state officials and former FBI Director Comey. After Siebert was let go, Lindsey Halligan stepped in as Acting U.S. Attorney and swiftly indicted Comey.
The environment within the Eastern District of Virginia seems fraught with tension and imminent resignations. Reports suggest that after Comey’s indictment, additional waves of resignations are expected from the DoJ. The shake-up at this level raises questions about the motivations behind these firings and the overarching influence of political affiliation within the Department of Justice.
Ben’Ary’s sudden exit represents more than just a personnel change; it reflects a broader narrative of ongoing power struggles within law enforcement and judicial circles. With accusations flying and high-profile individuals at the center of significant investigations, the relationship between political loyalties and judicial duties becomes increasingly scrutinized. This dynamic will likely continue to unfold as the national discourse on justice, accountability, and political influence becomes ever more pronounced.
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