Former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark is facing a hearing to determine if he should be sanctioned for his alleged involvement in attempting to help then-President Donald Trump overturn the 2020 election. The hearing, held by the Washington, D.C., Office of Disciplinary Counsel, focused on Clark's actions following the election.
Clark is accused of engaging in dishonest conduct by suggesting a letter be sent to Georgia, indicating that the Justice Department was investigating irregularities in the state's election and urging state lawmakers to void Biden's electoral win. The disciplinary counsel at the hearing characterized Clark's actions as a coup attempt at the Department of Justice.
Clark's attorney argued that the letter was not meant to be public and should have been protected under privilege. He emphasized that the letter was part of a normal legal debate and punishing Clark could have a chilling effect on future discussions.
The hearing revisited the events surrounding the 2020 election, including a dramatic meeting on January 3, 2021, when White House and Justice Department attorneys threatened to quit if Trump fired then-acting Attorney General Rosen and appointed Clark. Testimony highlighted the pressure Trump exerted on the Justice Department to investigate fraud claims.
Former deputy White House counsel testified that Clark pursued his duty based on his belief in serious election issues, despite his theories being debunked. Testimony also revealed disagreements within the department regarding the evidence and the extent of fraud and misconduct in the election.
The hearing is set to continue with further testimony from Rosen. Clark could potentially face sanctions or disbarment, with the possibility of appealing any decision to the D.C. Court of Appeals.
