Introduction
James Comey's book "Saving Justice" offers a compelling look into the inner workings of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Drawing from his extensive career in law enforcement and as FBI Director, Comey shares insights on the importance of truth, transparency, and maintaining public trust in these vital institutions. The book comes at a critical time when faith in America's justice system has been shaken, and Comey presents his vision for how it can be restored.
Through a mix of personal anecdotes, historical examples, and reflections on recent events, Comey explores the challenges facing the DOJ and FBI. He emphasizes the need to keep these organizations independent from political influence while still being accountable to the American people. The book serves as both a cautionary tale about the dangers of compromising justice for political gain and a hopeful roadmap for rebuilding integrity in these institutions.
The Reservoir of Trust
One of the central themes in Comey's book is the concept of a "reservoir of trust" that the DOJ and FBI must continually maintain and replenish. This idea stems from Comey's early observations as a young lawyer, where he noticed that federal prosecutors seemed to command more respect and credibility in the courtroom than other attorneys.
Comey explains that this reservoir of trust is built through consistent dedication to truth and justice, regardless of political pressures or personal consequences. It's a collective effort that requires everyone in the DOJ and FBI to uphold the highest ethical standards. When this trust is maintained, it allows these institutions to function effectively and serve the American people.
However, Comey also acknowledges that this trust can be depleted when individuals within the system fail to live up to these standards or when political interference compromises the integrity of investigations. He shares an example from his early career where he was pressured to prosecute a minor drug offender more harshly than he felt was just, simply because it aligned with a political campaign's "tough on crime" stance. This experience taught him the importance of standing firm in his convictions and only pursuing cases he truly believed in.
The Importance of Truth in Justice
Throughout the book, Comey repeatedly emphasizes the critical role that truth plays in the justice system. He argues that without a commitment to uncovering and presenting the truth, the entire foundation of justice crumbles.
To illustrate this point, Comey recounts a bizarre case involving an alleged fur theft that turned out to be an insurance scam. The sheer improbability of the reported crime – thieves supposedly stealing an impossible amount of furs without anyone noticing – led investigators to dig deeper and uncover the truth. This case demonstrates how a dedication to finding the truth, even when it's not immediately apparent, is essential to the proper functioning of the justice system.
Comey contrasts this commitment to truth with the approach of some politicians, particularly former President Donald Trump, who he accuses of treating truth as malleable and subject to personal whims. He argues that when leaders at the highest levels of government show disregard for factual accuracy, it undermines the entire justice system and erodes public trust.
The Witness Protection Program and Building Trust
An interesting aspect of the book is Comey's discussion of the Witness Protection Program, officially known as the Witness Security Program (WitSec). This program, which relocates and provides new identities to cooperating witnesses whose lives are in danger, relies heavily on trust to function effectively.
Comey shares the story of Vincent DiMarco, a witness who entered the program after helping bring down members of the Gambino crime family. The case illustrates both the effectiveness of the program in obtaining crucial testimony and the challenges of maintaining integrity when dealing with witnesses who may have their own complicated histories.
The author emphasizes that even when working with protected witnesses, prosecutors must maintain their commitment to transparency and truth. When DiMarco committed bigamy while in the program, Comey ensured this information was disclosed to the court, despite the potential complications it could cause for the case. This dedication to full disclosure, even when inconvenient, is what Comey believes is necessary to maintain the justice system's credibility.
The Private Sector Detour
Comey's career took a brief detour into the private sector, which he describes as a humbling and educational experience. Working as a defense attorney for corporations in product liability cases, he found himself in unfamiliar and often less prestigious settings than he was accustomed to as a federal prosecutor.
One particularly poignant moment came when a judge recognized Comey from his days as a prosecutor and remarked, "How the mighty have fallen." This experience gave Comey a new perspective on the justice system and a greater appreciation for the challenges faced by defense attorneys and their clients.
Despite the valuable lessons learned, Comey ultimately felt unfulfilled in private practice. He missed the sense of purpose that came with serving in the DOJ, where the goal was pursuing justice rather than simply winning cases or making money. This realization led him back to public service, where he felt he could make a more meaningful impact.
The Legacy of Henry Stimson
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to discussing the legacy of Henry Stimson, who served as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York in the early 20th century. Stimson's tenure marked a turning point for the office, transforming it from a corrupt institution influenced by wealth and politics into one driven by principles and a commitment to justice.
Comey explains how Stimson's reforms created a culture of independence and excellence that persists to this day. This legacy has sometimes led to tension between the Southern District office and "Main Justice" in Washington, D.C., with the former often seeing itself as more above the political fray.
When Comey was appointed to lead the Southern District office, he felt the weight of Stimson's legacy. He recognized the importance of maintaining the office's independence while also navigating the complex relationships with Main Justice and the political establishment in Washington.
To protect the office's autonomy, Comey made strategic decisions to raise his own public profile. By arguing high-profile cases himself and engaging with the media, he built the clout necessary to resist potential interference from Washington. This approach wasn't about personal gain, but about preserving the integrity and independence of the office.
The Challenges of Leadership in the DOJ
As Comey moved up the ranks to become U.S. Deputy Attorney General, he faced new challenges in balancing the pursuit of justice with political sensitivities. He shares the example of the investigation into Sandy Berger, a former National Security Advisor, who was caught stealing classified documents from the National Archives.
While Comey initially wanted to push for a quick resolution to the case, he was reminded of the importance of avoiding even the appearance of political motivation in high-profile investigations. This experience taught him the delicate balance required in leadership positions within the DOJ, where one must pursue justice vigorously while also being mindful of public perception and the potential for political fallout.
Comey also discusses the importance of maintaining a separation between the DOJ and the White House when it comes to specific cases. He argues that while presidents can set broad policy priorities for the DOJ, they should never interfere with or comment on individual cases. He praises President George W. Bush for maintaining this separation, even during the investigation into the leak of CIA officer Valerie Plame's identity, which involved senior members of Bush's administration.
The Importance of Transparency
A key theme in Comey's approach to leadership is the value of transparency in building and maintaining public trust. He believes that when significant mistakes are made or important decisions need to be explained, it's crucial for DOJ and FBI leadership to communicate directly with the public.
Comey provides several examples of this approach in action. When it was discovered that FBI testimony regarding hair analysis had been flawed in numerous cases, potentially leading to wrongful convictions, Comey pushed for a thorough review and public disclosure of the findings. Similarly, when a gap in the background check system allowed Dylann Roof to purchase the gun he used in the Charleston church shooting, Comey held a press conference to explain the error and apologize.
Perhaps the most controversial application of this transparency principle was Comey's decision to hold a press conference regarding the investigation into Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server. While this decision has been heavily criticized, Comey maintains that it was necessary to preserve public trust in the FBI's impartiality during a highly charged political moment.
The Trump Administration and the Erosion of Trust
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to Comey's experiences during the Trump administration and his concerns about the damage done to the DOJ and FBI during this period. He recounts several troubling interactions with President Trump, including requests for personal loyalty and attempts to influence ongoing investigations.
Comey expresses deep concern over what he sees as the Trump administration's disregard for the truth and the independence of the justice system. He criticizes former Attorney General William Barr for misrepresenting the findings of the Mueller report, arguing that such actions severely deplete the reservoir of trust that the DOJ relies on to function effectively.
The author also discusses the broader implications of having a president who, in Comey's view, treats truth as subjective and malleable. He argues that this approach not only undermines the justice system but also erodes democratic norms and institutions more broadly.
Lessons from History: Edward Levi and Restoring Trust
Despite the challenges faced by the DOJ and FBI in recent years, Comey remains optimistic about the possibility of restoring trust in these institutions. He looks to history for guidance, specifically the example of Edward Levi, who served as Attorney General in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal.
Levi, a respected legal scholar with no clear political affiliation, was tasked with rebuilding public trust in the DOJ at a time when it had been severely compromised by political interference and abuse of power. Comey details how Levi implemented reforms to increase transparency, limit the FBI's domestic surveillance activities, and establish clearer guidelines for the DOJ's operations.
The author argues that Levi's approach – emphasizing transparency, adherence to the rule of law, and independence from political influence – provides a blueprint for how the DOJ and FBI can regain public trust today. He stresses that this is not a one-time fix but an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance and commitment from leadership.
The Path Forward
In the final sections of the book, Comey offers his thoughts on how to move forward and strengthen the American justice system. He acknowledges the difficult question of whether former President Trump should face criminal investigation now that he's out of office. While not providing a definitive answer, Comey explores the pros and cons of such an approach.
On one hand, pursuing charges against a former president could be seen as political retribution and might further divide an already polarized nation. On the other hand, failing to hold a president accountable for potential crimes could set a dangerous precedent and undermine the principle that no one is above the law.
Comey suggests that one potential solution could be for local prosecutors, outside of the federal DOJ, to pursue cases where there's clear evidence of wrongdoing. This approach might help avoid the appearance of federal political motivation while still ensuring accountability.
Regardless of how this specific issue is resolved, Comey emphasizes the critical importance of transparency in decision-making. He argues that whatever course of action is taken, it must be clearly explained to the public to maintain trust in the justice system.
Conclusion
"Saving Justice" is both a reflection on James Comey's experiences in law enforcement and a call to action for preserving the integrity of America's justice system. Throughout the book, Comey emphasizes the importance of truth, transparency, and independence in maintaining public trust in institutions like the DOJ and FBI.
The author paints a picture of these organizations as guardians of justice, constantly working to fill a "reservoir of trust" that allows them to function effectively. He argues that this trust is built through consistent adherence to principles, even when it's politically inconvenient or personally challenging.
Comey doesn't shy away from discussing controversial decisions, including his handling of the Hillary Clinton email investigation. While he stands by his actions, he also reflects on the unintended consequences and the lessons learned from these experiences.
The book serves as a warning about the dangers of political interference in the justice system and the corrosive effects of leadership that disregards truth. Comey's criticism of the Trump administration is sharp, but he frames it within a larger context of the ongoing struggle to maintain the independence and integrity of American justice institutions.
Despite the challenges he outlines, Comey remains optimistic about the future. He looks to historical examples, like the reforms implemented by Edward Levi after Watergate, as proof that trust can be rebuilt even after significant damage has been done.
Ultimately, "Saving Justice" is a call for vigilance in protecting the principles that underpin the American justice system. Comey argues that maintaining the rule of law and the independence of justice institutions is not just the responsibility of those within the system, but of all citizens who value democracy and fairness.
The book leaves readers with a clear message: saving justice requires ongoing commitment, transparency, and a unwavering dedication to truth. It's a challenging task, but one that Comey believes is essential for the health of American democracy.
Key Takeaways
The Reservoir of Trust: The DOJ and FBI rely on a "reservoir of trust" built through consistent dedication to truth and justice. This trust must be continually maintained and replenished.
Importance of Truth: A commitment to uncovering and presenting the truth is fundamental to the justice system. When leaders show disregard for factual accuracy, it undermines the entire system.
Independence from Politics: The DOJ and FBI must remain independent from political influence to function effectively. Presidents should set broad policy priorities but never interfere with individual cases.
Transparency Builds Trust: Open communication with the public, especially when mistakes are made, is crucial for maintaining trust in justice institutions.
Leadership Shapes Culture: The values and behavior of leaders significantly influence the culture of organizations like the DOJ and FBI.
Historical Lessons: Looking to historical examples, like Edward Levi's reforms after Watergate, can provide guidance for rebuilding trust in justice institutions.
Ongoing Vigilance: Maintaining the integrity of the justice system requires constant effort and commitment, not just from those within the system but from all citizens.
Balancing Justice and Politics: Leaders in the DOJ must navigate complex political landscapes while staying true to the principles of justice.
The Danger of Politicizing Justice: Using justice institutions for political purposes severely undermines their effectiveness and public trust.
The Power of Personal Integrity: Standing firm in one's convictions, even when it's difficult or unpopular, is essential for those working in the justice system.
Reflection
James Comey's "Saving Justice" provides a thoughtful and often personal exploration of the challenges facing America's justice system. Through his experiences as a prosecutor, private attorney, and FBI Director, Comey offers unique insights into the inner workings of these institutions and the principles that guide them.
The book's central theme – the importance of maintaining a "reservoir of trust" – is particularly relevant in today's political climate. Comey makes a compelling case for why this trust is so crucial and how it can be both built and eroded. His emphasis on transparency, even when it's uncomfortable or politically inconvenient, is a refreshing perspective in an era often characterized by obfuscation and spin.
Comey's critiques of the Trump administration are sharp and unequivocal. While some readers may find these sections politically charged, they are presented within the context of Comey's broader argument about the dangers of politicizing justice institutions. His concerns about the erosion of truth and the rule of law under Trump's leadership are clearly deeply felt and rooted in his experiences.
One of the book's strengths is its use of specific cases and examples to illustrate broader points. From the bizarre fur theft case to the complexities of the Witness Protection Program, these stories bring Comey's arguments to life and make the book engaging as well as informative.
The historical context provided, particularly the sections on Henry Stimson and Edward Levi, adds depth to Comey's arguments. By showing how past leaders have navigated similar challenges, he offers hope that current problems can be overcome.
However, the book is not without its controversies. Comey's defense of his handling of the Hillary Clinton email investigation, while thorough, is unlikely to convince his harshest critics. Some readers may also find his self-portrayal as a principled truth-teller at odds with the criticism he's received from both sides of the political aisle.
Despite these potential criticisms, "Saving Justice" is a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussion about the role of justice institutions in American democracy. Comey's insider perspective, combined with his clear passion for the principles of justice, makes for a compelling read.
The book leaves readers with much to ponder about the state of American justice and the challenges it faces. Comey's optimism about the possibility of reform and his call for ongoing vigilance in protecting these institutions is inspiring. Whether one agrees with all of Comey's decisions or not, his dedication to the principles of truth, transparency, and the rule of law is evident throughout the book.
Ultimately, "Saving Justice" serves as both a warning about the fragility of our justice institutions and a roadmap for how they can be strengthened. It's a call to action for all Americans to engage with these issues and play their part in upholding the principles of justice that are so crucial to a healthy democracy.