Political Tribune

DOJ, Donald Trump, Opinion, Politics

Massive Trump Banner Draped Across Justice Department Headquarters—Backlash Erupts

A troubling visual for democracy

577
577 points

A giant banner with Donald Trump’s face now hangs across the exterior of the Justice Department headquarters. The slogan reads, “Make America Safe Again.” It was placed between two columns on one corner of the historic building.

Social media users quickly reacted.

Trump banners have appeared on other federal buildings in Washington. But placing one on the Justice Department carries a different weight.

The department has long operated with a tradition of independence from the White House. That distance was meant to protect investigations and prosecutions from political pressure. This display challenges that image.

The Justice Department said it is proud to “celebrate 250 years of our great country and our historic work to make America safe again at President Trump’s direction.” The language directly links the department’s mission to Trump’s leadership.

Attorney General Pam Bondi has openly aligned herself with the president, rejecting the arms-length approach used by some predecessors. Trump officials have denied claims that the department is being used for political revenge. They argue that the previous administration politicized law enforcement by bringing two federal criminal cases against Trump, which were later abandoned after he won the 2024 election.

Still, concerns continue.

Federal prosecutors brought charges against former FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Those cases were later dismissed by a federal judge, who concluded the prosecutor had been illegally appointed. The department has also investigated Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell over congressional testimony and Democratic Minnesota officials over statements related to immigration enforcement.

Comey reacted to the banner, writing that it was “sickening to see.” He added that the administration “forgot to cover the inscription” on the building that says, “Where law ends tyranny begins.”

Another, even larger Trump banner stretches across the Department of Agriculture building, beside one of Abraham Lincoln. Last summer, a banner reading “American Workers First” was placed on the Department of Labor building next to a large American flag.

These changes are part of a bigger makeover of Washington since Trump returned to office in 2025. He added his name to the United States Institute of Peace building. He also renamed the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts the “Trump Kennedy Center,” which caused a lot of anger from lawmakers, visitors, and the Kennedy family.

At the White House, he approved a $250 million ballroom and added gold decorations to the Oval Office, making it match his personal style.

Featured image via X screengrab 

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Terry Lawson

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Terry is an editor and political writer based in Alabama. Over the last five years, he’s worked behind the scenes as a ghostwriter for a range of companies, helping shape voices and tell stories that connect. Now at Political Tribune, he writes sharp political pieces and edits with a close eye on clarity and tone. Terry’s work is driven by strong storytelling, attention to detail, and a clear sense of purpose. He’s skilled in writing, editing, and project management — and always focused on getting the message right. You can find him on X at https://x.com/TerryNotTrump.

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