What Went Into the DOJ’s Decision to Drop McDonnell’s Case?

A governor of a major state commits what the U.S. Supreme Court calls “tawdry” acts, and the high court leaves it up to the government whether to go forward with another prosecution.

But who decides if there is enough evidence for another trial? Do the prosecutors in the local U.S. Attorneys’ Offices decide? Or do the people in Washington at the Justice Department dictate?

Three former federal prosecutors who were involved in corruption cases in the past told Bloomberg BNA that what the public usually views as a political decision is often much more complex.

All three, who weren’t involved ...