DOJ mulls special counsel investigation should Trump run again

Department of Justice officials have reportedly discussed the possibility of appointing a special counsel to oversee the investigations related to former President Donald Trump should he opt to run again for the nation's top job in 2024.

Though they are waiting for the midterm elections to pass before making major public moves, the DOJ is reportedly bringing on additional experienced prosecutors and preparing for a potential slew of indictments against major figures in Trump world, CNN reported, citing "sources familiar with the matter."

"Now federal investigators are planning for a burst of post-election activity in Trump-related investigations," CNN reported. "That includes the prospect of indictments of Trump's associates – moves that could be made more complicated if Trump declares a run for the presidency."

Trump has previously faced a special counsel investigation from Robert Mueller, who explored the now-thoroughly-debunked Trump-Russia collusion narrative. 

While the DOJ seeks to avoid the appearance of partisan political activity, federal officials have already prompted a bevy of external criticism for alleged political persecution, most notably in the wake of the FBI's raid on Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in early August. Officials reportedly hope that an independent special counsel handling Trump matters might insulate the DOJ somewhat from accusations of partisanship, though Trump-related issues are far from the only matters attracting such scrutiny.

Whistleblowers have come forward from within the bureau over the alleged bias senior officials have shown in their handling of sensitive investigations, especially those involving Trump or first son Hunter Biden.

While Trump has not yet made any formal announcement of his candidacy, he has repeatedly hinted that he plans to seek another term in the White House.