President Donald Trump has downplayed the influence of Laura Loomer, a right-wing provocateur known for her incendiary social media presence, in his administration’s decision-making.

A former career Justice Department prosecutor is challenging his firing by the White House, saying in a complaint that his removal for “unprecedented partisan and political reasons” undermines a “bedrock principle” of the justice system.

The recent firings of career Justice Department lawyers by the White House is a sign of President Donald Trump’s tightening grip over the law enforcement agency known for its long tradition of political independence.