The US Department of Justice (DOJ) is undergoing a major reorganization that will cut about 275 positions, affecting around 140 employees, according to documents seen by Reuters. The changes aim to promote “efficiencies and effective governance” but have drawn criticism from lawmakers and former employees who fear it could harm critical work.
The DOJ plans to close the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, a prosecutor-led office created in the 1980s to tackle major drug cartels, as well as the Community Relations Service, which has helped mediate racial tensions for 60 years. The agency is also merging the Tax Division into its Criminal and Civil divisions.
The reorganization is part of President Trump’s campaign to remake the federal government, with a focus on immigration crackdowns. However, lawmakers have expressed concerns that the plan could hurt critical work in areas such as drug enforcement and racial tensions.
Critics say the changes will save over $11 million and further the president’s mission for an efficient government. However, former department employees argue that the plan is “not normal” and will have negative consequences for Americans.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/us-scraps-justice-department-task-force-that-took-cartels-documents-show-2025-10-02