Via LLRX – Cultivating obedience: Using the Justice Department to attack former officials consolidates power and deters dissent – Political science scholars who study the origins of elected strongmen, Professors  Joe Wright and Erica Frantz discuss how President Donald Trump’s first three months in office has been distinguished by how his administration has targeted dozens of former officials who criticized him or opposed his agenda. They believe Trump’s use of the Justice Department to attack former officials who stood up to him isn’t just about revenge. It also deters current officials from defying Trump.