Justice Department Seeks to Invoke Executive Privilege to Silence Dismissed Pardon Attorney

On April 7, 2025, senior officials at the Justice Department are attempting to invoke executive privilege to prevent Elizabeth G. Oyer, a recently dismissed lawyer, from testifying before Congress regarding her disagreement with supervisors over Mel Gibson’s gun rights restoration. This situation has escalated as Oyer’s legal counsel accuses the department of intimidation ahead of her scheduled testimony.

The conflict centers on a narrow issue involving the restoration of firearm rights for actor Mel Gibson, who is known for his support of President Trump. On Friday night, Oyer received an unexpected visit from deputy U.S. Marshals sent to deliver a letter from the Justice Department. The letter warned her that she was “not authorized to disclose” information related to Gibson’s case.

Oyer’s lawyer, Michael Bromwich, expressed concern in his response letter about the department’s tactics, especially since Oyer’s teenage son was home alone when deputies arrived at their residence. This incident highlights ongoing tensions within the Justice Department following the dismissal of several career prosecutors who have spoken out about their experiences.

• Oyer was previously serving as the Justice Department’s pardon attorney.
• The administration has terminated numerous prosecutors amid controversies.
• This case could set precedents affecting future whistle-blower protections.

The implications of this dispute extend beyond just one individual case; they may influence how future whistle-blowers interact with Congress and federal agencies. As this situation unfolds, it raises significant questions about transparency and accountability within government operations.

This incident underscores critical challenges faced by individuals within federal agencies who seek to voice concerns or disagreements regarding administrative decisions while navigating potential repercussions from their employers.