The picture of a hesitant Justice Department runs contrary to the GOP allegation that the indictments of Trump were the product of a Democrat-led plot.

For months, investigators would have to wait to issue subpoenas or interview witnesses to gather new information,” the authors write, adding that Garland “had chosen to impose a very conservative interpretation of what DOJ officials called the 60-day rule,” urging prosecutors to avoid taking public investigative steps within two months of Election Day that involve candidates in that election.