Fired pardon attorney sues DOJ over Gibson gun-rights case

Liz Oyer, who served as the Justice Department’s pardon attorney until March 2025, filed a federal lawsuit in Washington, DC, alleging she was unlawfully fired after refusing to advocate restoring Mel Gibson’s gun rights under pressure from the Trump administration. The complaint claims she was instructed to make it appear that Gibson, convicted of domestic violence, should have his gun rights restored, despite inadequate vetting. Oyer says she was fired by then-Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, and argues the termination violated constitutional rights and civil service protections. The suit seeks a court order declaring the firing unlawful and reinstating her, underscoring the defense of nonpartisan civil service and the rule of law. DOJ and White House responses have been limited, with Blanche denying knowledge of Gibson's case at the time, as the case is framed as part of broader challenges to Trump-era terminations. Oyer frames the case as a stand for public safety and the integrity of civil servants against political interference.