WASHINGTON D.C. — Following accusations of ethics violations, a senior Department of Justice official, speaking anonymously to Hambry, confirmed that the agency’s ethics rules are, in practice, less like rigid statutes and more like a series of 'aspirational suggestions' for those operating at higher echelons. The clarification comes amidst scrutiny over a letter sent to Georgetown University by DOJ official Ed Martin, which critics allege crossed professional boundaries.

“Look, we have rules for the rank-and-file, absolutely,” explained the official, who requested anonymity to speak candidly about the department’s unwritten policies. “But once you hit a certain pay grade, or your name is on a door, those rules… well, they become more like a choose-your-own-adventure novel. You navigate them with a certain… creative interpretation.”

The official elaborated that this 'flexible ethics' model allows for greater operational efficiency and ensures that important people aren't bogged down by what he termed 'pedestrian moral quandaries.' “It’s about maintaining momentum,” he added, “not getting caught up in the minutiae of whether your personal interests perfectly align with public duty. Sometimes, they just happen to intersect beautifully.”

When pressed on whether this applied universally, the official paused. “Let’s just say some intersections are more beautiful than others.”