Washington, D.C. — Michael Romano, a former federal prosecutor, is transitioning from courtroom prosecutor to congressional witness. This year, he has appeared twice before Congress, voicing concerns over actions by the Trump administration aimed at demoting or dismissing Justice Department attorneys involved in high-profile investigations, including those linked to the January 6 Capitol riot. Romano asserts that such moves threaten the integrity of democracy itself.
At a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Romano sat before lawmakers, reflecting on his experiences and the historical context of the Justice Department’s recent upheaval, marked by over 5,000 employees departing under Trump’s second term. This significant turnover is believed to have depleted the agency’s institutional knowledge, a concern expressed by numerous legal experts and former colleagues.
After resigning in March 2025, Romano found a new path in private law, where he has become a sought-after witness regarding the Capitol riot consequences. He emphasized that all actions during the riot should be considered significant crimes, countering arguments that some defendants received excessive punishment for their offenses. “The individuals who breached the Capitol facilitated the violent chaos that ensued,” he stated, reinforcing his commitment to justice during his testimony.
Greg Rosen, the former head of the Justice Department’s Capitol Siege Section, noted the importance of experienced voices addressing concerns about governmental integrity. “Such engagement is fundamentally American,” he said, acknowledging his own departure in 2025 for a private law practice.
Romano is not alone in his post-Justice Department journey. Other prosecutors have relocated to private firms and local government roles, providing valuable insights and skills gained from their time at the Justice Department. In the District of Columbia, the U.S. Attorney’s Office faced substantial challenges due to a staffing shortfall, a consequence of political tensions surrounding the Capitol riot prosecutions.
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division also experienced notable resignations, including from attorneys who are now tackling issues of governmental overreach. Sydney Foster, a former head of the Civil Rights Division’s Appellate Section, joined the Washington Litigation Group, which focuses on legal battles against perceived governmental misconduct. “It’s a critical moment for our democracy,” she said, emphasizing the need for impactful legal advocacy.
As ex-prosecutors capitalize on opportunities in the private sector, some have even ventured into politics. Ryan Crosswell, who resigned amid controversial decisions during the Trump administration, is running for a House seat in Pennsylvania. He has garnered key endorsements, reflecting a shift in activism among former justice officials.
Meanwhile, J.P. Cooney, another former prosecutor involved in investigations linked to Trump, is also eyeing a congressional run in Virginia. Cooney has publicly criticized the former president, framing his campaign around restoring respect for the rule of law. “The past year has been troubling for our fundamental values,” he stated, highlighting the urgent need for integrity in leadership.
As these former officials navigate their new roles, the implications of their departures from the Justice Department continue to resonate across political, legal, and civic landscapes. The talent that has migrated to private firms and political campaigns underscores a significant transformation within one of the nation’s key institutions.