Barfare: The Next Front in America’s Political Warfare

In this episode of The Miller Report: Real Clear Journalism, Maggie Miller sits down with investigative journalist Ben Weingarten to discuss his latest report on “barfare” — using professional disciplinary complaints as a political weapon. His investigation showcases Trump allies getting targeted by this practice.

At the center of the story is Jeffrey Clark, a former Justice Department official and current head of the Office of Regulatory Affairs, who is facing possible disbarment in Washington, D.C., over a draft letter he wrote during the 2020 election that was never sent. Supporters argue that Clark was offering protected legal advice to the president, while critics say the draft contained dishonest claims and attempted to undermine justice. The case has sparked debate over whether disciplinary proceedings are being used to punish political opponents and if it would chill the ability of government lawyers to provide candid counsel. We discuss neutrality of the bar, accountability, and viewpoint diversity.