does anyone know why we waited to get..

[slater71]

To get all the papers back from Trump? Why were we even negotiating with him in the first place? He should have been told that he had 24 hours to give them back or we are coming for them and you.

[Ocelot II]

1. From we can see in the redacted affidavit and the memorandum filed by the DoJ,

it does appear that there are a number of other people involved, either as witnesses or as possible criminal defendants. While some people are arguing that it's taken too long, it's also possible that some part of the investigation involves so many other people that they had particular reasons for waiting. It also occurs to me that the repeated attempts by the National Archives and the FBI to get the documents back and TFG's refusal to return them also helps cement his intent and therefore his guilt.

[getagrip_already]

2. is that a rhetorical question?

Because the only people who know the real answer work at the doj and aren't talking.

But if it were a run of the mill contractor, it would have been done within hours of them getting enough evidence that secrets were being held.

[Mr. Ected]

3. He holds a microphone that tens of millions are tuned into, including Putin, Kim, et al

If finally cornered like a rat, he could easily undermine national security in ways Aldridge Ames could only dream about.

He's erratic; no way to know which way he'll pivot next because he operates on a truth-optional basis.

Walking on eggshells more than kid gloves, to be fair.

[SoCalDavidS]

4. Because DOJ Has Been Treating TFG With Kid Gloves

They waited until they absolutely had no choice but to go after him. They gave him every possible chance they could.

I still think the last thing DOJ wants to do is indict him.

[gab13by13]

5. I only have one thing to say,

when Karl Rove says on Fox News that DOJ waited too long, that's pretty bad.

[Fiendish Thingy]

6. The process, from NARA request, to DOJ subpeona, to search warrant was critical

To establish both knowledge of the criminal acts, and intent. In addition, it ended up providing evidence of obstruction.