Trump Banner Displayed at Justice Department Headquarters
WASHINGTON (AP) — A large banner featuring Donald Trump’s face was hung on the exterior of Justice Department headquarters on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in a display of the Republican president’s efforts to exert power over the law enforcement agency that once investigated him. The banner, which reads “Make America Safe Again,” is a striking symbol of the erosion of the department’s tradition of independence from White House control.
A Symbolic Display of Power
While Trump banners have been displayed outside other agencies in Washington, D.C., the placement of one on the Justice Department building is particularly significant. The banner, hung between two columns, showcases the administration’s efforts to assert control over an agency that previously conducted investigations into the president .
“Make America Safe Again” Slogan
The slogan “Make America Safe Again” has been used by the Trump administration to emphasize its focus on immigration and crime reduction. The display of this slogan on the Justice Department building underscores the administration’s message and its perceived influence over the agency.
Attorney General Bondi’s Role
Attorney General Pam Bondi has publicly supported President Trump and has distanced herself from previous Attorneys General who maintained a greater separation between the White House and the Justice Department to ensure impartiality in investigations and prosecutions.
DOJ Response and Past Investigations
The Justice Department released a statement on Thursday, February 19, 2026, stating its pride in celebrating 250 years of the country and its work to “make America safe again at President Trump’s direction.”
The Justice Department, once investigating President Trump, saw those cases abandoned after his 2024 election victory, citing a policy of not prosecuting sitting presidents. Special Counsel Jack Smith had previously been appointed to investigate the handling of classified documents and attempts to overturn the 2020 election.
Concerns Over Politicization
The Trump administration has faced criticism for opening investigations into perceived political opponents, including New York Attorney General Letitia James and former FBI Director James Comey.
Reactions to the Banner
James Comey expressed his dismay on social media, calling the banner “sickening to see” and noting the irony of its placement given the inscription on the building stating, “Where law ends tyranny begins.”