The Wall Street Journal editorial board, a traditionally conservative voice has unleashed a scathing critique of former President Donald Trump and his administration’s legal efforts labeling them a complete “faceplant.” In a widely read op-ed the paper coined a memorable and mocking phrase for the administration “The Gang That Couldn’t Indict Straight.”
This wasn’t just a political jab it was a detailed criticism arguing that Trump’s aggressive “lawfare revenge tour” has “gone bust,” resulting in humiliating dismissals of key cases. Read on to understand the legal and political missteps that led the prestigious WSJ to declare these attempts to seek retribution as a profound failure.
The Legal “Faceplant” Why the Cases Against Comey and James Failed
The editorial focuses on the failure of the Justice Department (DOJ) cases against two prominent figures seen as targets of the administration former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. The swift dismissal of cases against these individuals is what triggered the Wall Street Journal’s sharp commentary.
The Problem: Cutting Corners for Retribution
The WSJ pointedly argued that the root cause of these legal losses was a reckless pursuit of political goals over meticulous legal procedure.
“This is what happens when officials don’t follow legal procedure. They lose cases,” the paper wrote.
The article details how the Trump Administration in its rush for retribution and eagerness to indict his enemies allegedly cut corners. This strategic failure is a core theme for the paper which has been increasingly critical of Trump’s handling of both legal and economic issues.
The Metaphor ‘The Gang That Couldn’t Indict Straight’
One of the most engaging aspects of the op-ed is its headline a classic literary and political play.
- Original Reference. The phrase is skit of 1971 comedy crime film The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight.
- Political Context. By changing “Shoot” to “Indict,” the WSJ delivers a powerful easily scannable message. It suggests a fundamental even comical incompetence within the administration’s legal apparatus when it came to politically motivated prosecutions.
The reference perfectly encapsulates the editorial’s position that the legal team including the actions of then Attorney General Pam Bondi, were too quick to prioritize settling scores leading to the entire effort becoming “unraveled at the pull of one legal thread.” This kind of clever word play is highly effective for Google Discover optimization creating title that is both informative and emotionally engaging.
Also Read: Olamide Pauses Concert Mid Performance to Aid Sick Fan A Viral Moment of Compassion
FAQs
Why did Wall Street Journal use the phrase “The Gang That Couldn’t Indict Straight”?
It is play on the 1971 film “The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight,” used to mock the Trump Administration’s perceived in competence. The paper suggests the administration was too focused on political retribution to follow proper legal procedure leading to the dismissal of cases.
Which two legal cases mentioned dismissed?
The cases were conduct by Justice Department against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Is Wall Street Journal typically critical of Donald Trump?
While its editorial board is conservative the Rupert Murdoch owned paper has increasingly needled Trump on multiple issues to particularly his handling of the economy and in this case his attempts at what they call a “lawfare revenge tour.”
Call to Action
What is your take on the WSJ’s scathing critique?
Do you agree that Trump Administration cut corners in pursuit of punishment? Share your thoughts in comments below!