Sally Yates
Democrat Former Administration
Summary
Former Acting Attorney General who was fired after refusing to defend Trump's travel ban, saying she was not convinced it was lawful.
In Their Own Words
Key Statements
“
I am not convinced that the defense of the executive order is consistent with these responsibilities nor am I convinced that the executive order is lawful.
Memo directing DOJ not to defend the travel ban
“
We have to be on guard against a president who doesn't respect the rule of law.
Interview about rule of law and the 2020 election
“
The attack on the rule of law is unprecedented and dangerous.
Same interview
Timeline
January 9, 2015
Became Deputy Attorney General
Under Obama
January 20, 2017
Became Acting Attorney General
During Trump transition
January 30, 2017
Refused to defend travel ban
Defied Trump order
January 30, 2017
Fired by Trump
Dismissed same day
2020
Warned about Trump's attacks on rule of law
Continued criticism
Why This Matters
Credibility & Background
Positions Held
- Acting Attorney General (2017)
- Deputy Attorney General (2015-2017)
- U.S. Attorney for Northern District of Georgia (2010-2015)
Analysis
Reasons for Opposition
- 01 Said the travel ban was likely unlawful
- 02 Warned Trump did not respect the rule of law
- 03 Said attacks on rule of law were unprecedented and dangerous
Documentation
Sources
Government January 30, 2017
DOJ memo from Acting Attorney General Sally Q. Yates (Jan. 30, 2017)
https://www.justice.gov/opa/file/930601/download
Interview October 5, 2020
Why former acting AG Sally Yates says rule of law is on the ballot
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/why-former-acting-ag-sally-yates-says-rule-of-law-is-on-the-ballot
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