Arnold Burns, American lawyer and politician, 21st United States Deputy Attorney General (d. 2013)

Arnold Irwin Burns, born on April 14, 1930, and passing away on October 1, 2013, was an accomplished American lawyer whose career was marked by significant public service and a steadfast commitment to ethical conduct. His most prominent federal role was serving as the United States Deputy Attorney General, a highly influential position as the second-highest-ranking official within the U.S. Department of Justice, during a crucial period from 1986 to 1988.

During his tenure as Deputy Attorney General, Burns served under President Ronald Reagan and U.S. Attorney General Edwin Meese. This period was politically charged, and Burns played a vital role in the day-to-day operations and policy implementation of the Justice Department. However, his time in this esteemed office culminated in a remarkable display of principled dissent.

A Principled Resignation Amidst Controversy

In March 1988, Arnold Burns, alongside William Weld—who was then the head of the U.S. Justice Department's influential criminal division—and four additional aides, made the extraordinary decision to resign from their posts. Their collective resignation was a profound act of protest, stemming from deep concerns over what they perceived as improper conduct by Attorney General Edwin Meese. Specifically, their objections centered on allegations of personal financial indiscretions involving Meese, which they believed compromised the integrity of the Justice Department.

Congressional Testimony and Its Aftermath

The controversy surrounding Attorney General Meese intensified, leading to a special prosecutor's investigation into the allegations. While the special prosecutor ultimately declined to file charges against Meese, the ethical questions persisted. In a powerful demonstration of their convictions, Burns and Weld jointly testified before the U.S. Congress in July 1988. Their testimony was unequivocal, lending significant support to the potential for a prosecution of Meese, despite the special prosecutor's decision.

This public appearance before Congress by such high-ranking former Justice Department officials sent shockwaves through Washington D.C. and drew considerable public attention. Shortly after Burns and Weld presented their case, Edwin Meese resigned from his position as Attorney General later in July 1988. Burns's actions, along with those of Weld and their colleagues, underscored the importance of ethical leadership within government and served as a potent reminder that public service demands the highest standards of integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Arnold Irwin Burns?

Arnold Irwin Burns (1930–2013) was an American lawyer who held the significant position of United States Deputy Attorney General from 1986 to 1988 under President Ronald Reagan.

What was his primary role in the U.S. government?

His primary role was the United States Deputy Attorney General, the second-highest-ranking official in the Department of Justice, responsible for overseeing many of its critical operations.

Why did Arnold Burns resign from his position in 1988?

He resigned in March 1988, along with William Weld and four aides, in protest against what they viewed as improper conduct and personal financial indiscretions by then-U.S. Attorney General Edwin Meese.

Who was Edwin Meese, and what were the allegations against him?

Edwin Meese served as the U.S. Attorney General under President Ronald Reagan. Allegations against him primarily involved personal financial indiscretions that raised ethical concerns and led to a special prosecutor's investigation.

What was the significance of Burns's and Weld's testimony to Congress?

Their joint testimony in July 1988 was significant because, despite a special prosecutor declining to file charges, they publicly supported the potential prosecution of Attorney General Meese, highlighting serious ethical concerns from within the Justice Department's leadership.

What was the outcome for Edwin Meese after the controversy?

Edwin Meese resigned from his position as Attorney General in July 1988, shortly after Arnold Burns and William Weld testified before Congress regarding his conduct.