Senior Department of Justice prosecutor Jay Bratt, a central figure in the “documents” case against President-elect Donald Trump, has reportedly resigned ahead of the incoming administration. Bratt, formerly chief of the DOJ’s counterintelligence and export controls section, faced scrutiny for alleged ethical misconduct during his time on Special Counsel Jack Smith’s team.
According to journalist Michael Isikoff, Bratt’s resignation was perceived by some as a preemptive move to avoid potential dismissal under Trump’s administration. Sources suggested fears of reprisal from Trump’s appointees, including Pam Bondi as Attorney General and Kash Patel as FBI Director, contributed to Bratt’s decision. A former DOJ official described Bratt’s departure as an effort to “get ahead of the axe.”
Bratt’s resignation follows a series of allegations about improper behavior during the investigation into Trump’s handling of classified documents. In 2023, the House Judiciary Committee, led by Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH), launched an investigation into Bratt’s conduct. Attorney Stanley Woodward, representing Trump’s co-defendant Walt Nauta, accused Bratt of attempting to coerce cooperation by threatening his judicial aspirations.
Jordan criticized Bratt in a July 2024 letter, stating, “You have engaged in a series of improper actions and unethical conduct that violate the Department’s duty to impartial justice.” These allegations fueled concerns about Bratt’s impartiality and adherence to ethical standards.
Bratt’s departure has sparked speculation about a broader exodus of DOJ officials and FBI agents wary of changes under Trump’s administration. However, Bratt’s resignation underscores ongoing tensions within the DOJ over accountability and politicization as Trump’s presidency approaches.
