• Donald Trump criticized the Federalist Society and co-chairman Leonard Leo, calling Leo a “sleazebag” and accusing him of influencing judicial appointments poorly during his presidency.
• Trump’s comments, shared on Truth Social, reflect frustration over certain court rulings and dissatisfaction with some judges recommended by the organization.
• The criticism highlights a potential rift between Trump and the prominent conservative legal group, raising questions about its influence on judicial nominations and conservative politics.

President Donald Trump sharply criticized the Federalist Society and its co-chairman Leonard Leo on Thursday, accusing Leo of being a “sleazebag” who “probably hates America.” Trump expressed frustration over judicial appointments he made during his presidency, claiming he was misled by the conservative legal organization.

The comments came through a post on Trump’s Truth Social platform, where he referenced a recent ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade that was temporarily stayed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Trump tied the ruling to his broader dissatisfaction with certain judicial picks influenced by the Federalist Society.

Trump Targets Federalist Society Leadership

In his post, Trump questioned the motives behind some court decisions, specifically calling out Leonard Leo, a prominent figure in the Federalist Society. Trump alleged that Leo exerts undue influence over judicial nominations and even Supreme Court justices.

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“I was new to Washington,” Trump wrote. “It was suggested that I use The Federalist Society as a recommending source on Judges. I did so… but then realized they were under the thumb of a real ‘sleazebag’ named Leonard Leo, a bad person who, in his own way, probably hates America.”

Trump further noted his disappointment with the organization, claiming it offered bad advice on judicial nominations, though he expressed pride in some of his appointees.

The Federalist Society has yet to respond to Trump’s allegations. Leo, a key player in conservative judicial circles, previously helped guide the nominations of Supreme Court Justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett during Trump’s term.

The Influence of Leonard Leo

Leo’s role in shaping the judiciary has been highly influential. As co-chairman of the Federalist Society, he has helped solidify conservative priorities in the federal courts. His work gained significant attention during Trump’s presidency, with CNN legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin describing him as responsible for “a third of the Supreme Court” at the time.

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“There’s no one else with anywhere close to that level of influence,” Toobin said. “It’s indicative of where the Republican Party is… aligned at the hip with The Federalist Society when it comes to judicial appointments.”

While Leo officially stepped back from day-to-day involvement with the Federalist Society, he remains a powerful figure in the conservative legal movement.

Broader Implications

Trump’s criticism of the Federalist Society signals a potential rift between the former president and the influential conservative organization. His remarks could resonate within Republican circles, particularly as judicial appointments remain a critical issue for the party’s base.

Legal experts note that Trump’s comments highlight long-standing debates over the judiciary’s independence and the influence of political groups. As Trump eyes a possible 2024 presidential bid, his relationship with the Federalist Society could play a role in shaping his support among conservative voters.

Readers, what do you think about Trump’s remarks and their potential impact on the conservative legal movement? Follow The Dupree Report On WhatsApp to join the discussion and stay updated on breaking news.

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