Former Federal Prosecutor in Tampa Sues Trump Administration

A Former U.S. Attorney’s Fight for Justice and Accountability

A former Assistant U.S. Attorney from Tampa has come forward to share his story after being abruptly removed from his position. Mike Gordon, who worked in the Middle District of Florida, claims he was fired for doing his job—upholding the law, defending democracy, and prosecuting individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot. His dismissal has sparked concerns about the independence of federal prosecutors and the potential political influence over the Department of Justice.

Gordon emphasized that his termination came without any prior notice, explanation, or justification. He is now represented by high-profile attorney Abbe Lowell and is preparing to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration. If successful, this could make him the first fired federal prosecutor to take such legal action. The case highlights broader questions about the integrity of the justice system and whether prosecutors can operate free from political pressure.

The Impact of Political Pressure on Prosecutors

Gordon stated that he was dismissed for upholding the law, not for following political directives. He explained that he pursued cases against January 6th rioters based on their actions, not their political affiliations. “I pursued cases against January 6 rioters because what they did, not because who they supported,” he said. “Because they assaulted police officers, not because who they voted for.”

He also mentioned that he prosecuted at least 30 cases related to the events of January 6, including members of the Proud Boys. For eight and a half years, Gordon served as a dedicated prosecutor, but now he finds himself fighting for his own rights. “I lost my job doing what was right, but I didn’t lose my voice,” he said.

Legal Concerns and Constitutional Violations

The letter of termination, signed by then-Attorney General Pam Bondi, cited Article II of the Constitution, which grants the President authority over executive functions. However, Gordon argues that the process was fundamentally flawed. “What is most concerning about the letter that AG Bondi signed is that it is patently, obviously, black-and-white lawless that it disregards the law,” he said.

Federal prosecutors are protected under civil service laws, which require the government to provide warning and a merit-based reason before terminating employment. Gordon claimed that none of these steps were followed in his case. “The law requires that the government cannot fire a federal prosecutor without first giving warning and then giving a justification, a reason, merit-based reason for firing,” he said. “They didn’t do any of that with me.”

The Broader Implications for the Justice System

Abbe David Lowell, an attorney with Lowell & Associates, echoed Gordon’s concerns. He emphasized that the independence of prosecutors is crucial to the functioning of the justice system. “Our justice system depends on the independence of prosecutors who enforce the law without fear, favor, or political pressure,” he said. “When that independence is compromised, justice itself is at risk.”

Lowell highlighted that Gordon had a distinguished career, including convictions of violent gang members, January 6 rioters, and fraudsters who targeted vulnerable populations. “He followed the law, not politics, and was fired for it,” he added. The firm plans to include other DOJ employees as plaintiffs in the upcoming lawsuit, signaling a broader push for accountability.

A Call for Transparency and Fairness

Gordon’s case has drawn attention not only for its legal implications but also for the message it sends to other prosecutors across the country. “When people like me are fired for just doing their job, I don’t see how it can’t create a climate where every prosecutor around the country isn’t looking over their shoulder,” he said. “Every prosecutor isn’t forced to ask themselves not is this what the law requires, is this what would benefit the public, but instead is this what would please the president.”

As the lawsuit moves forward, the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the future of federal prosecutions and the role of political influence in the justice system. For now, Gordon remains determined to speak out and ensure that the lessons of this case are not forgotten.