Former DOJ Attorneys Warn Trump Lawsuit Threatens D.C. Gun Law Framework

A federal lawsuit targeting Washington, D.C.’s AR-15 ban is triggering backlash from former Justice Department officials, who warn the legal strategy could reshape how gun laws are challenged nationwide.

According to The Washington Post, the DOJ argues D.C.’s prohibition on semiautomatic rifles violates the Second Amendment and relies on a federal civil rights statute typically used to address police misconduct.

That move is drawing sharp criticism. Former DOJ attorneys and gun violence prevention groups say the government is misapplying the law in a way that could weaken public safety protections.

The lawsuit claims D.C. is blocking access to firearms “in common use,” citing Supreme Court precedent. But opponents argue the statute was never intended to target laws passed by elected officials.

D.C. has already moved to dismiss the case, calling it unprecedented.

The outcome could influence similar gun law challenges across the country, especially as courts continue to redefine Second Amendment limits.

Subscribe free for daily political analysis they won’t broadcast. Join 115K+ readers →