GOP Launches New Probe, Dems Furious
House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) is ramping up his oversight of the Justice Department (DOJ) with a new probe targeting J.P. Cooney, the deputy of special counsel Jack Smith in the Jan. 6 investigation. Jordan has formally requested that the DOJ provide all documents related to any internal reviews of Cooney’s conduct. This move represents a significant escalation in Jordan’s efforts to investigate those involved in cases against former President Trump.
Jordan’s recent request follows a demand for information concerning the daughter of the New York judge who presided over Trump’s hush money case. The letter sent to the DOJ’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) reflects a broader scrutiny of the department’s handling of high-profile cases, including an earlier request for details on the lead prosecutor in the Mar-a-Lago case.
The timing of Jordan’s investigation is noteworthy, coming just after the release of a DOJ inspector general report on the sentencing of Trump ally Roger Stone. This report emerged following claims from a whistleblower about potential political interference in the recommended sentence for Stone, who was ultimately pardoned by Trump.
Cooney, who was the head of the Fraud and Public Corruption section at the time, was involved in the prosecution of Stone. Stone faced convictions for obstructing a congressional investigation into Trump, false statements, and witness tampering. The inspector general’s review focused on former Attorney General Bill Barr, finding no improper political influence despite internal disagreements over Stone’s sentencing recommendation. The report acknowledged that concerns about politicization expressed by Cooney and others were not without merit, even though their handling of these concerns was criticized.
Jordan’s investigation specifically targets Cooney’s alleged promotion of what he deems an “unsubstantiated conspiracy theory” regarding Stone’s sentencing. Jordan asserts that maintaining high standards of professionalism and integrity in the DOJ is crucial, and that prosecutors should prioritize justice rather than engaging in politically motivated speculation.
The inspector general’s report also found the whistleblower’s concerns to be reasonable. Aaron Zelinsky had discussed his apprehensions with Cooney, who was troubled by the potential for political motives influencing the sentencing process. Cooney’s defense has criticized the report for potentially discouraging internal discussions about possible impropriety.
In addition to requesting documents, Jordan’s letter seeks a briefing from the OPR on the actions being taken to ensure fairness and impartiality within the DOJ. This investigation underscores Jordan’s commitment to overseeing the DOJ’s handling of sensitive cases and ensuring that its practices align with principles of justice and integrity.
