**Donald Trump’s Second Term Aspirations: Control Over Justice Department and Retribution**

Former President Donald Trump has prioritized regaining control of the Justice Department and exacting retribution against his political adversaries if he wins the upcoming election. Trump will enter office as a defendant in one active federal criminal case, with another case previously dismissed but currently sought for reinstatement by special counsel Jack Smith. Ending these prosecutions tops Trump's agenda. Publicly, he has voiced intentions to pursue those he views as political enemies, including Vice President Kamala Harris, President Joe Biden, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, and members of the House Jan. 6 select committee.

Trump is intent on avoiding past mistakes with his Justice Department appointments, pointing to his dissatisfaction with former officials such as Sally Yates, Jim Comey, and Jeff Sessions for their perceived lack of loyalty. A second term would focus on ensuring appointees exhibit unwavering allegiance to his directives. Competence, while important, is considered secondary to loyalty, according to a former Trump Justice Department official.

For critical Treasury and Federal Reserve positions, Trump is expected to nominate more experienced candidates. However, his approach to Justice Department roles, including the attorney general position, could involve appointing individuals like Jeffrey Clark, who demonstrated loyalty during Trump's attempts to challenge the 2020 election results. Clark, indicted alongside Trump in Georgia and facing disciplinary actions, is viewed as a candidate who can execute Trump's judicial agenda.

Trump's team has also pondered a variety of names for top Justice Department roles. This includes Sen. Mike Lee and Sen. Josh Hawley, both strong proponents of Trump's election challenge efforts, and Sen. Eric Schmitt, all of whom may face easier paths to Senate confirmation. Potential candidates from Trump’s legal defense team, such as Todd Blanche and Emil Bove, are also in consideration for senior roles.

Former administration officials like John Ratcliffe, who has previously struggled with Senate confirmation due to resume concerns, and Jeffrey Jensen, known for his role in the Michael Flynn investigation, are also being discussed. Additional figures include Will Levi, a former aide to Bill Barr, and Mike Davis, a prominent Trump defender.

Judge Aileen Cannon, who has favored Trump in key rulings, is also on the radar for attorney general, highlighting Trump's search for officials likely to support his legal battles. His renewed campaign is poised to place those loyal to him in significant judicial positions, with the intent to swiftly advance his legal and political objectives.