Adam Schleifer, a former assistant U.S. attorney in Los Angeles, is formally contesting his abrupt dismissal by the White House, claiming the firing was politically motivated and threatens the core principles of the American justice system. Schleifer, who had previously run in a Democratic congressional primary in New York, argues his termination was retaliation for political speech made while he was a private citizen and not employed by the government.
His removal came via an email from a White House official, issued just one hour after conservative activist Laura Loomer called for his firing on social media. Loomer highlighted Schleifer’s past criticism of Donald Trump during his congressional campaign. Schleifer contends that this sequence of events is evidence of improper political interference.
In his complaint to the Merit Systems Protection Board — the agency responsible for shielding federal employees from political retaliation — Schleifer seeks reinstatement, back pay, and other remedies. He maintains that none of his past political views compromised his duties as a federal prosecutor or his dedication to the impartial administration of justice.
At the time of his dismissal, Schleifer was part of a strike force handling corporate and securities fraud cases, including one involving Andrew Wiederhorn, former CEO of Fat Brands Inc., who has ties to pro-Trump political contributions.
Although there has been a wave of resignations and firings within the Justice Department since Trump took office, Schleifer’s case stands out because it was reportedly initiated by the White House rather than the department itself. Typically, career prosecutors are insulated from political purges due to civil service protections, which allow them to continue serving regardless of the presidential administration in power.
Loomer has been active in publicly targeting government officials she believes are not aligned with Trump’s vision. Following Schleifer’s firing, additional staff changes reportedly took place at the National Security Council, after Loomer raised loyalty concerns directly with the president during an Oval Office meeting.
An inquiry seeking the White House’s comment on Schleifer’s claims had not received a response at the time of reporting.
