Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Federal search of Ilhan Omar's home and seizure of property — Federal agents conducted a search of U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar's home and seized property, including her phone, as part of a criminal investigation into her immigration paperwork. Omar's attorneys filed a letter with the Department of Justice contending the search was "neither justified nor lawful" and demanding return of seized items and preservation of search recordings. The investigation was launched weeks before the November 3 midterm election in which Omar is a candidate. A DOJ spokesperson denied the allegations, stating agents complied with all court orders.

Supporting reports

• Trump ordered military to prepare invasion plan for Greenland — According to reporting, President Trump ordered special forces commanders (JSOC) to draw up a plan for the invasion of Greenland. The order was reportedly motivated by policy hawks around the president, including Stephen Miller, who were emboldened by the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and sought to seize the island before Russia or China could. The Joint Chiefs of Staff resisted the order on grounds that it would be illegal and would not be supported by Congress. Trump was reportedly motivated in part by a desire to distract American voters from poor economic performance before mid-term elections.
• Trump orders Special Forces to prepare invasion plan for Greenland — Reports indicate Trump ordered Special Forces to prepare an invasion plan for Greenland. In response, NATO is openly discussing sending troops to Greenland. European leaders are contemplating sanctions against American corporations if Trump moves ahead with the plan. The situation is described as severe and reckless.
• Trump threatened to invade Greenland, prompting NATO allies to prepare defensive measures — Trump made threats to invade Greenland, forcing NATO allies to consider placing military forces on the island to deter potential U.S. aggression. British and German forces are moving into Greenland in response to Trump's threats. Trump simultaneously bragged online that he "saved NATO" while his invasion threats destabilized the alliance and forced member states to prepare defenses against the United States.
• DHS Secretary Noem endorses Insurrection Act option and confirms discussions with Trump — DHS Secretary Kristi Noem appeared on television endorsing increased ICE and Border Patrol presence in Minnesota and stated that she has discussed the Insurrection Act directly with Trump. Noem affirmed that the president "certainly has the constitutional authority" to invoke the act and that it remains an option under consideration.
• Secretary Kristi Noem affirmed Trump's constitutional authority for Insurrection Act — Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stated during a press gaggle in Minnesota that Trump's threat to invoke the Insurrection Act is within his constitutional authority. Noem said she spoke to Trump that morning and affirmed that the president has the constitutional right to use the Insurrection Act if he deems it necessary, characterizing it as an opportunity available to him in the future.
• Trump threatens to invoke Insurrection Act in response to Minnesota protests — Trump posted a threat to invoke the Insurrection Act if Minnesota officials do not stop "professional agitators and insurrectionists" attacking ICE agents. The post framed ICE and Border Patrol deployments in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and other cities as responses to attacks on federal agents. Trump stated he would institute the Insurrection Act if state politicians did not comply with his demands to suppress protest activity.
• Trump threatens to invoke Insurrection Act in Minnesota — President Trump posted on his social media account threatening to invoke the Insurrection Act if Minnesota's "corrupt politicians" do not stop "professional agitators and insurrectionists" from attacking ICE agents. The threat came after federal agents shot and wounded a man in Minneapolis, triggering clashes between agents using tear gas and flash-bang grenades and approximately 200 protesters. A family with six children, including a six-month-old infant, was struck by tear gas and flash-bang grenades during the clash; three children were hospitalized.
• Trump threatens to invoke Insurrection Act in Minnesota over ICE protests — Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he would invoke the Insurrection Act in Minnesota to "quickly put an end" to protests against federal immigration enforcement operations, characterizing demonstrators as "professional agitators and insurrectionists." The threat came after federal ICE agents shot a man in the leg during an enforcement operation in Minneapolis, sparking protests. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz urged de-escalation and called on Trump to "turn the temperature down" and end what he described as a "campaign of retribution."
• Trump threatens to invoke Insurrection Act — President Trump threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act in response to protests in Minnesota, claiming that if local politicians do not control the situation, he will take action. This statement raises concerns about the potential militarization of law enforcement in domestic matters.

Supporting reports

• Vice President Vance claimed congressional reminders of Constitution are illegal — Vice President JD Vance stated that if the president has not issued illegal orders, then members of Congress telling the military to defy the president is by definition illegal. This statement contradicts the constitutional duty of military personnel to refuse unlawful orders and the right of Congress to remind them of that duty.

Supporting reports

• Rep. Jason Crow detailed Trump's threats to use military unlawfully — Rep. Jason Crow (D-CO) appeared on CBS and detailed Trump's threats to use the military in unlawful ways, including sending troops into Chicago, into polling stations, killing terrorists' families, and shooting peaceful protesters. Crow stated that Trump cannot tolerate members of Congress reminding service members of their constitutional duty to obey the law and resorts to threats of violence and arrest.
• Pentagon announces investigation of Senator Mark Kelly for video calling troops to refuse illegal orders — The Pentagon announced an investigation into Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy captain, after he participated in a video with other Democratic lawmakers calling on US troops to refuse unlawful orders. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the video was "despicable" and that Kelly's conduct undermines military discipline. The Pentagon cited federal law allowing recall of retired service members to active duty for possible court-martial. Kelly responded that the investigation was meant to intimidate Congress and vowed not to be silenced.
• Defense Department announced investigation of Senator Kelly for alleged misconduct and threatened recall to active duty — The Defense Department posted on social media that it was investigating Senator Mark Kelly following "serious allegations of misconduct" and suggested that Kelly could be recalled to active duty "for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures." This announcement came after Kelly participated in a November 18 video with five other Democratic veterans in Congress warning military and intelligence personnel of their legal right and duty to refuse unlawful orders.
• Department of War initiated review of Senator Mark Kelly for potential court-martial — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that the Department of War has initiated a review of retired Navy Captain Mark Kelly (D-AZ) for potential recall to active duty and court-martial proceedings. The review stems from a video Kelly made with five other Democratic lawmakers informing service members of their constitutional duty to refuse unlawful orders. The DOD statement cited 10 U.S.C. § 688 and 18 U.S.C. § 2387, which prohibits actions intended to interfere with military loyalty, morale, and discipline. Hegseth characterized the video as "despicable" and "seditious."
• Trump posted threats against Senator Mark Kelly — President Trump posted on social media that Senator Mark Kelly should be "arrested, hanged, and put to death" in response to Kelly's video encouraging service members to follow the Constitution and refuse unlawful orders. Kelly responded by reaffirming his oath to the Constitution and stating that Trump's threats would not intimidate him or other members of Congress from holding the administration accountable.
• Pete Hegseth orders Navy investigation into Mark Kelly's video comments — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memorandum to Navy Secretary John Phelan on Tuesday ordering an investigation into "potentially unlawful comments" made by Senator Mark Kelly and fellow Democrats in a social media video encouraging military personnel to refuse unlawful orders. The Pentagon had already announced an investigation on Monday. Hegseth requested a brief by December 10. The group faces FBI counter-terrorism inquiry and potential court-martial proceedings.
• Defense Secretary Hegseth directs Navy review of Senator Kelly — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared a memo directing the Navy secretary to review Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) for "potentially unlawful conduct" related to the viral video where Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers urged military members to resist illegal orders. The memo requested the Navy review be completed and briefed to Hegseth by December 10.
• Defense Secretary threatens Senator with court martial over military dissent video — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened Senator Mark Kelly with court martial after Kelly recorded a video with five Democratic lawmakers warning military members to question unlawful orders, apparently in reference to the Caribbean boat strikes. The threat represents potential retaliation against a senator for encouraging military personnel to uphold constitutional obligations.
• Secretary of Defense Hegseth threatens court martial of Senator Mark Kelly — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth threatened to court martial Senator Mark Kelly in response to Kelly's video urging military personnel to follow the law and refuse illegal orders. Hegseth called the video "sedition" and made deranged social media posts attacking Kelly's uniform and medals, later claiming Kelly's image was reversed by his phone. Kelly responded that the threat was about intimidation and the media cycle, not law, and refused to be silenced.
• Trump threatened to court-martial Senator Mark Kelly over military discipline video — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth threatened to court-martial Senator Mark Kelly after Kelly released a video with five other Democratic lawmakers urging military members not to follow illegal orders. The video was released in response to the alleged illegal directives issued by Hegseth regarding lethal operations.

Supporting reports

• Trump accuses Democratic lawmakers of sedition on Truth Social — Trump posted on Truth Social targeting six Democratic lawmakers who published a video urging military members to refuse illegal orders. Trump accused them of sedition "AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL" and stated they "SHOULD BE IN JAIL RIGHT NOW." He later shared a post calling them "traitorous sons of bitches" who should be "impeached and prosecuted."
• Trump demands arrest and execution of Democratic lawmakers for sedition — On Thursday, President Trump posted on social media that the Democratic lawmakers' video constituted "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL" and demanded each lawmaker be "ARRESTED AND PUT ON TRIAL." In a follow-up post, he stated the behavior was "punishable by DEATH." Trump continued attacking the lawmakers over the following two days. The posts represent a sitting president calling for the arrest and capital punishment of elected members of Congress for speech he perceives as threatening to his policies.
• Trump invoked stolen 2020 election claim and labeled critics "traitors" — Trump reiterated the false claim that the 2020 election was "stolen" and attacked Democratic lawmakers, veterans, and former intelligence officials who reminded U.S. troops they cannot obey unlawful orders, calling these Americans "traitors." Trump's team reposted comments suggesting George Washington would have hanged such individuals.
• Trump posted calls for execution of Democrats for treason — Trump posted on social media that Democrats who told the military to disobey his orders should be executed for sedition, calling it "a major crime" and "sedition at the highest level." He made two additional posts at midnight Saturday repeating the accusation and claiming "many great legal scholars" agreed the Democrats had committed serious crimes.
• Trump accuses Kelly and other Democrats of sedition punishable by death — President Trump posted on Truth Social that Senator Kelly and other Democrats who participated in the video had engaged in "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH" and reposted another user's message saying "HANG THEM." Kelly subsequently stated that Trump's language made him fear for his family's safety, particularly given his wife Gabrielle Giffords' prior assassination attempt in 2011.
• Trump Posts Calls for Senator Kelly's Arrest and Execution — President Trump posted on social media calling for Senator Mark Kelly's arrest, hanging, and execution in response to Kelly's participation in a video reminding servicemembers of their duty to refuse unlawful orders. The posts were part of the administration's escalating rhetoric against lawmakers who have questioned the legality of military operations, including deadly strikes on civilians in small boats near Venezuela.
• Trump calls for execution of Senator Kelly for advising troops on illegal orders — President Trump posted on social media that Senator Mark Kelly and five other Democratic lawmakers "should be in jail right now" and characterized their video advising military personnel to refuse illegal orders as "seditious behaviour at the highest level, punishable by DEATH." Trump also republished a post containing the phrase "hang them." Kelly responded that Trump's threats were intended to intimidate Congress from holding the administration accountable.

Supporting reports

• Trump accused six veteran lawmakers of sedition and called for their execution over military law video — On November 20, 2025, two days after six Democratic lawmakers with military backgrounds (Senators Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin; Representatives Chrissy Houlahan, Chris Deluzio, Jason Crow, and Maggie Goodlander) posted a one-minute video instructing troops that they can and must refuse illegal orders, Donald Trump posted on Truth Social calling them "traitors" and accusing them of "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH!" The video restated existing military law under the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the Manual for Courts-Martial, which require service members to refuse patently illegal orders. Trump's accusation triggered federal investigations.
• Trump threatens execution of Democratic lawmakers in social media posts — On the morning of November 20, 2025, President Trump posted a series of messages on social media labeling Democratic senators and representatives "traitors" and accusing them of "seditious behavior punishable by death." He reposted extremist messages urging that lawmakers be hanged, including one stating "George Washington would hang them." Trump demanded the lawmakers "should be arrested and put on trial" and warned "We won't have a country anymore" unless they are punished. The threats were directed at lawmakers who had released a video reminding U.S. service members of their obligation to refuse unlawful orders.
• Trump called for arrest and execution of Democratic lawmakers who released military oath video — On November 20, President Trump posted multiple messages on social media calling for the arrest and execution of six Democratic lawmakers—Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly, and Representatives Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, and Jason Crow—who had released a video on November 19 reminding military and intelligence officers of their duty to refuse illegal orders. Trump labeled their speech "seditious behavior" and "treason," reposting calls for them to be "frog marched" from their homes and "hanged." By noon, the White House issued a statement clarifying that Trump does not want to execute members of Congress.
• Trump called for execution by hanging of Democratic lawmakers — Trump posted on Truth Social calling for the execution by hanging of two Democratic senators (Mark Kelly, Elissa Slotkin) and four representatives (Chris Deluzio, Maggie Goodlander, Chrissy Houlahan, Jason Crow) after they released a video reminding military and intelligence personnel of their constitutional oath and legal right to refuse unlawful orders. Trump labeled their statements "seditious behavior" punishable by death and reposted a cultist's message saying "HANG THEM GEORGE WASHINGTON WOULD!!"
• Trump posts Truth Social messages accusing Democratic lawmakers of seditious behavior punishable by death — On Thursday morning, President Trump posted multiple messages on Truth Social accusing six Democratic lawmakers (Senators Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly; Representatives Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, Chrissy Houlahan, and Jason Crow) of "seditious behavior" after they released a video telling active military personnel they can and must refuse illegal orders. Trump wrote "SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH" and called for their arrest and trial. Democratic leaders condemned the posts as death threats and calls for political violence; the White House later clarified Trump does not want to execute them but was responding to what it characterized as encouragement of military insubordination.
• Trump threatened serious legal consequences for Democratic lawmakers over military video — Trump stated on Fox News that Democratic lawmakers who produced a video reminding troops they do not have to follow unlawful orders were "in serious trouble" and suggested that historically such conduct was "punishable by death" for seditious behavior. Trump indicated that Deputy Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and military courts were investigating the matter. Trump did not explicitly threaten execution but repeatedly invoked historical capital punishment for sedition.

Supporting reports

• Trump posts directive to deploy troops to Portland — On September 27, Trump's social media account posted a directive to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to Portland, Oregon, to protect ICE facilities from what Trump characterized as attacks by "Antifa" and "domestic terrorists." Trump authorized "Full Force, if necessary." The post was based on Trump's assertion that Portland was a "war ravaged" city plagued by "anarchists" and "crazy people," claims contradicted by local officials and reporting.
• Trump directed troop deployment to Portland, Oregon — On September 27, Trump announced via Truth Social that he directed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to Portland, Oregon, which he baselessly called "War ravaged" and "under siege" by antifa. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson responded that "the number of necessary troops is zero, in Portland and any other American city." The deployment was presented without evidence of the claimed crisis.
• Trump directed military deployment to Portland with authorization for full force — President Trump posted that he was directing Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to provide troops to protect the ICE facility in Portland and "any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists," and authorized "Full Force, if necessary." The order came after Trump claimed the facility was under siege, but Senator Ron Wyden posted a video showing the ICE facility with no people present.
• Trump announced deployment of federal troops to Portland — Trump announced on Truth Social that he is directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy federal troops to Portland, Oregon at the request of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to protect against what he characterized as attacks by "Antifa" and "domestic terrorists." Trump authorized "full force, if necessary." Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson both rejected the deployment, stating there is no insurrection or threat to national security warranting military presence in the city.

Supporting reports

• Trump signs National Security Presidential Memorandum-7 on domestic terrorism — President Trump signed National Security Presidential Memorandum-7 (NSPM-7), directing law enforcement and regulatory agencies to investigate and disrupt networks, entities, and organizations allegedly responsible for encouraging acts of political violence. The memo directs the IRS commissioner to ensure no tax-exempt groups finance political violence or domestic terrorism, and instructs the IRS chief to refer organizations and their employees to the Department of Justice for investigation and possible prosecution. Legal experts and free speech organizations warn the order conflates protected speech with political violence and could be weaponized against left-leaning nonprofits.
• Trump issues presidential memorandum targeting "domestic terrorism" with focus on left-wing groups — On Thursday, President Trump signed a presidential memorandum aimed at investigating and dismantling what he characterized as a radical left-wing "terror network." The memo directs the FBI's joint terrorism taskforces, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Treasury to pursue an "all-of-government effort" against left-wing political violence and antifa. Trump suggested billionaires George Soros and Reid Hoffman could be targets. Critics, including the ACLU, argue the memo uses the label of "domestic terrorism" to target non-profits, activists, and protected political speech, with potential for broad crackdown on political opponents.
• Trump issued National Security Presidential Memorandum ordering prosecution of protest as federal crime — Three days after the antifa designation, Trump issued National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 (NSPM-7), titled "Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence," which established a National Joint Terrorism Task Force to investigate Americans engaged in protest and ordered the attorney general to prosecute protest as a federal crime to the maximum extent permissible by law.
• Trump signs memorandum targeting activists and nonprofits as "terror network" — President Trump signed a memorandum titled "Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence" that targets activists and nonprofits as part of what he called a "terror network" allegedly fueling violence against Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The memo alleges that "common threads" include anti-Americanism, anti-capitalism, anti-Christianity, support for overthrowing the government, and extremism on migration, race, and gender. It grants law enforcement wide latitude to investigate, prosecute, and disrupt entities and individuals engaged in behavior the administration opposes, as well as nonprofit organizations that fund them. The memo also orders law enforcement to interrogate people regarding entities organizing actions and their financial sponsorship prior to adjudication or plea agreement.
• White House issues fact sheet on National Security Presidential Memorandum establishing domestic terrorism strategy — The White House issued a fact sheet on September 25, 2025, describing a National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM) signed by President Trump that directs federal agencies to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle organized political violence and domestic terrorism. The memorandum instructs the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force to coordinate investigations; directs the Attorney General to prosecute federal crimes related to organized political violence and recommend groups for designation as "domestic terrorist organizations"; instructs Treasury to identify and disrupt funding networks; and designates domestic terrorism a "National Priority Area." The fact sheet cites recent incidents including the assassination of conservative leader Charlie Kirk and attacks on ICE officers.
• Presidential Memorandum directs federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute domestic terrorism and organized political violence through coordinated task forces, financial tracking, and organizational designation authority. — National Security Presidential Memorandum-7, signed September 25, 2025, directs the Secretaries of State, Treasury, and Homeland Security and the Attorney General to establish a comprehensive federal strategy countering domestic terrorism and organized political violence. The memorandum instructs the National Joint Terrorism Task Force to investigate individuals and organizations engaged in political violence, radicalization, doxing, and intimidation campaigns; directs the Treasury Department to identify and disrupt financial networks funding such activity; authorizes the Attorney General to designate groups meeting the statutory definition of "domestic terrorism" as domestic terrorist organizations; and mandates law enforcement agencies to interrogate suspects regarding organizational structures and funding sources. The memorandum identifies "anti-fascist" movements as a primary focus and cites recent assassinations, ICE facility attacks, and riots as justification for the expanded investigative authority.
• White House issued National Security Presidential Memorandum directing domestic terrorism investigations and prosecutions — The White House issued NSPM-7 on September 25, 2025, directing the National Joint Terrorism Task Force, Department of Justice, Department of Treasury, and Department of Homeland Security to investigate, prosecute, and disrupt entities and individuals engaged in political violence and intimidation. The memorandum directs law enforcement to investigate funding sources, organizational structures, and participants in acts characterized as domestic terrorism, with particular focus on what the document describes as "anti-fascist" movements. It instructs the Attorney General to prosecute federal crimes related to these investigations to the maximum extent permissible by law and authorizes the Treasury to deploy investigative tools to trace funding streams.
• Trump signed memorandum designating antifa as domestic terrorist organization — President Trump signed a separate presidential memorandum claiming to designate antifa, described as a leaderless and decentralized anti-fascist movement, as a "domestic terrorist organization." Legal experts warned that through this memo and the concurrent nonprofit-targeting memo, Trump is less concerned with curbing political violence and more concerned with stamping out an idea and creating a tool to use against any form of left-wing protest activity.
• Trump signed presidential memorandum targeting left-wing nonprofit organizations — President Trump signed a presidential memorandum directing the federal government to investigate and target liberal nonprofit organizations that fund the political left, specifically naming Democratic megadonors George Soros and Reid Hoffman. The memo ordered the Department of Justice and Department of Treasury to use anti-terrorism financial tools against unspecified organizations and directed the IRS commissioner to ensure that no tax-exempt entities finance political violence or domestic terrorism. Legal experts observed that the memo largely targets actions protected by the First Amendment by conflating speech and violence, and violates federal guidelines prohibiting law enforcement from investigating Americans based solely on First Amendment-protected activity.

Supporting reports

• Trump signed executive memo "Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence" — Approximately two weeks after Charlie Kirk's death (mid-September 2025), President Trump signed an executive memo titled "Countering Domestic Terrorism and Organized Political Violence." Citing Kirk's killing, the memo laid groundwork for coordinated efforts by the attorney general, treasury secretary, and IRS commissioner to "investigate, prosecute and disrupt entities and individuals engaged in acts of political violence." Trump designated the leftist Antifa movement a "domestic terrorist organization" despite no such legal designation existing under U.S. law, and instructed the administration to "investigate, disrupt and dismantle" Antifa operations.
• Florida Politics suspends reporter for asking congressman about Kirk shooting — A.G. Gancarski, a reporter with Florida Politics, texted Congressman Randy Fine (R-FL) a question after Charlie Kirk's death asking whether the shooting would affect Fine's position on campus carry legislation. Fine responded by posting both the question and his response online, calling the question "repulsive." Within an hour, the editor of Florida Politics suspended Gancarski, citing lack of "basic empathy." The suspension occurred during the coordinated pressure campaign against Kirk critics.
• Trump designated ANTIFA as a major terrorist organization — Trump posted on Truth Social that he is "designating ANTIFA, A SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER, AS A MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION" and will "strongly recommend" that those funding ANTIFA be investigated. Legal experts noted that the President lacks statutory authority to designate domestic organizations as terrorist groups; only the Secretary of State may designate foreign terrorist organizations under law.
• Trump announces plan to designate antifa as domestic terrorist organization — Donald Trump announced via social media that he plans to designate antifa, a decentralized anti-fascist activist movement, as a "major terrorist organization." Trump called antifa a "SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER" and said he would "strongly recommend" investigating funders. Legal experts and Trump's own former FBI director have noted that antifa lacks the hierarchical structure required for formal designation and that no domestic terrorism statute currently exists to support such a move.
• Trump administration designates Antifa as major terrorist organization — President Trump announced via social media that he is designating Antifa as a major terrorist organization and recommending investigation of those funding it. Legal experts note that no statutory authority exists to designate domestic organizations as terrorist organizations under U.S. law, and such a designation would conflict with First Amendment protections for speech and assembly. The announcement follows the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's television show by ABC after administration pressure.
• Trump Designates ANTIFA as a Major Terrorist Organization — President Donald J. Trump announced via social media that he is designating ANTIFA as a major terrorist organization and recommended that those funding it be investigated. This declaration lacks legal grounds, as government officials can only designate foreign terrorist organizations, not domestic ones. The announcement reflects a broader strategy to divide the American populace into supporters and opponents, undermining democratic norms.

Supporting reports

• Trump posts threat to Chicago referencing "Department of War" and deportations — Trump posted on Truth Social that Chicago was about to discover "why it's called the Department of War," referencing a recent executive order renaming the Department of Defense. The post also stated "I love the smell of deportations in the morning," alluding to the film Apocalypse Now. Governor Pritzker responded by stating the president was "threatening to go to war with an American city" and that "This is not a joke. This is not normal." The rhetoric escalates the administration's framing of immigration enforcement as military action against a domestic city.
• Trump posted AI-generated image threatening military action against Chicago — President Trump's social media account posted an AI-generated image depicting him as a Vietnam War character in front of Chicago's skyline with military helicopters and flames, captioned "Chipocalypse Now" with text reading "I love the smell of deportations in the morning… Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR." The post included helicopter emojis associated with Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet's extrajudicial killings. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker responded by calling the threat abnormal and warning against intimidation.
• Trump shared "Chipocalypse Now" meme threatening deportations and war on Chicago — On Truth Social, Trump posted a meme depicting himself as an officer from "Apocalypse Now" with the caption "I love the smell of deportations in the morning" and "Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of War." Illinois Governor JB Pritzker responded by calling Trump a "wannabe dictator" and stating he is "threatening to go to war with an American city," characterizing the rhetoric as abnormal and dangerous.
• Trump posted apocalyptic threat against Chicago on Truth Social — Trump posted on Truth Social depicting himself as the character from Apocalypse Now with the caption "I love the smell of deportations in the morning. Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR." The post threatened military action against a major U.S. city. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and California Governor Gavin Newsom responded by characterizing the threat as authoritarian and unconstitutional. Senator Tammy Duckworth called it a declaration of war on an American city.

Supporting reports

• Trump stated no deadline for keeping troops in DC — When asked if there is a limit to how long he will keep troops in the nation's capital, Trump responded: "I don't know if there is a deadline. If I have a national emergency, I can keep the troops there as long as I want. People aren't going to want to have the troops out in 30 days." The statement indicates indefinite military occupation of the capital.
• Trump suggested Gaza-like depopulation of DC — During the same press conference, Trump suggested a potential Gaza-like depopulation strategy for Washington, D.C., stating: "We could take everybody out and you have a great capital" and warning visitors "they're not going to go home in a body bag." The statement implied forced removal of DC residents as a crime-reduction strategy.

Supporting reports

• Trump calls for prosecution of Obama and senior officials — President Trump, responding to DNI Gabbard's report, called for the prosecution of former President Obama, Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, and Susan Rice, claiming they committed treason and orchestrated a coup. Trump posted on Truth Social that "Obama himself manufactured the Russia, Russia, Russia HOAX" and called it "THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY" and "Irrefutable EVIDENCE." He demanded severe consequences for those involved.
• Trump baselessly accused Obama of committing treason — Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump baselessly accused Obama of committing treason, falsely claiming the former president and his administration "tried to rig the [2016] election, and they got caught. And there should be very severe consequences for that." Obama's spokesperson responded that the claims are "outrageous" and "ridiculous," noting that documents issued by Gabbard "undercuts the widely accepted conclusion that Russia worked to influence the 2016 presidential election."
• Trump accused Obama and Clinton of treason and election rigging — When asked about Deputy Attorney General Blanche's meeting with Maxwell, Trump attacked former President Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, claiming they "tried to rig the [2016] election, and they got caught" and should face "very severe consequences." Trump referenced allegations made by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard on Friday, in which she called for prosecution of Obama and former senior national security officials for a "treasonous conspiracy" against Trump related to Russian interference in the 2016 election.
• Trump directed Republican congressmembers to deflect questions about Epstein files by claiming Obama cheated in 2016 election — During a morning meeting with Republican members of Congress, President Trump stated his popularity is rising and instructed them to redirect questions away from the Epstein files by repeatedly claiming that former president Barack Obama cheated in the 2016 election. Trump requested that cameramen cut cameras during the accusation, though the recording continued uninterrupted. He told congressmembers to use the Obama claim as a deflection tactic for any "inappropriate" questions.
• Trump publicly calls for prosecution of Obama, alleging "coup" and "treason" — Donald Trump told reporters that Barack Obama attempted to lead a "coup" against him and committed "treason" by allegedly manufacturing evidence of Russian interference in the 2016 election. Trump named Obama as the primary target of a criminal investigation recommended in a report by Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence. Obama's office responded with an emphatic public refutation, breaking precedent to reject the accusations as "outrageous" and "ridiculous," and reaffirmed that Russia's 2016 interference was confirmed by bipartisan Senate investigation and the Mueller report.

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• Trump questioned Zohran Mamdani's immigration status and threatened arrest — Trump questioned the immigration status of Zohran Mamdani, claiming that a "lot of people are saying he's here illegally," despite Mamdani becoming a US citizen in 2018. Trump said his administration is "going to look at everything," and stated that Mamdani would be arrested if he followed through on campaign promises to defy ICE officials. Mamdani responded that Trump's comments represent "an attack on our democracy" and an attempt to intimidate New Yorkers who speak up.
• Trump called for investigation into former Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas — At a press conference in Ochopee, Florida, Trump called for an investigation into Alejandro Mayorkas, who served as Homeland Security Secretary under President Joe Biden. The call for investigation occurred in the context of Trump's broader statements about arresting and deporting individuals.
• Trump threatened arrest of Democratic NYC mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani — Trump threatened to arrest Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor, if he does not work with ICE agents to arrest migrants. Trump falsely claimed Mamdani is a communist and stated that "a lot of people are saying he's here illegally," despite Mamdani being a naturalized U.S. citizen. Trump also asserted that local and state governments have no legal obligation to work with federal immigration enforcement, contradicting established law.
• Trump amplifies accusations against naturalized NYC mayoral candidate and signals investigation — President Trump amplified Rep. Andy Ogles' accusations against Zohran Mamdani, a naturalized U.S. citizen who won New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, claiming "a lot of people are saying he's here illegally" and stating "We're going to look at everything." White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt earlier tacitly approved investigating Mamdani based on Ogles' unverified claims. Trump also stated his administration could deport citizens, which would violate the Constitution and federal law.
• Trump posts attack on naturalized NYC mayoral candidate on Truth Social — President Trump posted on Truth Social attacking Zohran Mamdani, the naturalized U.S. citizen who won New York City's Democratic mayoral primary, calling him a "Communist Lunatic" and stating "I hold all the levers, and have all the cards" in reference to his power to act against Mamdani. The post signals Trump's intent to use executive power to prevent Mamdani from winning office.

Supporting reports

• Trump orders DOJ to investigate Chris Krebs for election security statements — President Trump signed a presidential memorandum on April 9, 2025, ordering the Department of Justice to investigate Chris Krebs, former director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Krebs coordinated efforts to secure the 2020 presidential election and publicly countered false claims of voter fraud. Trump accused Krebs of weaponizing his position against free speech and stripped him of his security clearance. Trump repeated debunked claims of a "badly rigged election" and suggested Krebs would "have a big price to pay" if the election was found to be unsafe.
• Trump orders DOJ to investigate Miles Taylor for alleged classified leaks and defiance — President Trump signed a presidential memorandum on April 9, 2025, ordering the Department of Justice to investigate Miles Taylor, a former Department of Homeland Security official who served as chief of staff to Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. Taylor, who wrote an anonymous 2018 New York Times op-ed criticizing Trump and later published a book under the pseudonym "Anonymous," was accused of leaking classified information. Trump stripped Taylor of his security clearance and stated he believed Taylor was guilty of treason. Taylor responded that Trump had proven his point by weaponizing the justice department for revenge against dissent.
• Trump stripped security clearances from Christopher Krebs and Miles Taylor — On April 9, Trump revoked security clearances from Christopher Krebs, former head of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and Miles Taylor, a former Department of Homeland Security staffer. Trump claimed Krebs censored Trump loyalists by affirming the 2020 election was not stolen, and that Taylor's anonymous op-ed and book were treasonous and violated the Espionage Act. Trump also ordered government officials to investigate both men and recommend "appropriate remedial or preventative actions." CISA employees reported the attack on Krebs had disheartened staff and compounded staffing cuts that had "already severely degraded our capacity to defend critical infrastructure."
• White House issued fact sheet on presidential memorandum revoking Chris Krebs' security clearance — The White House published a fact sheet on April 9, 2025, describing a Presidential Memorandum signed by President Trump that revokes any active security clearance held by Chris Krebs and associates, including individuals at SentinelOne. The memorandum directs federal agencies to immediately revoke such clearances and calls for a comprehensive review of Krebs' activities as former head of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), including evaluation of CISA's conduct over six years. The fact sheet characterizes Krebs as having "weaponized" government authority to suppress conservative viewpoints, coerce social media platforms, and censor election information.
• White House issued memorandum directing revocation of Christopher Krebs' security clearance and review of CISA activities — The White House issued a presidential memorandum on April 9, 2025, directing executive agencies to revoke the security clearance of Christopher Krebs, former head of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). The memorandum alleges that Krebs engaged in censorship of speech related to the 2020 election and COVID-19, and directed coercion of social media platforms. It further directs the Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security to review Krebs' conduct as a federal employee and CISA's activities over the preceding six years, with a joint report to follow.
• Immigration judge rules Palestinian organizer Mahmoud Khalil eligible for deportation based on Secretary of State memo regarding his political views — An immigration judge in Louisiana ruled that Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate and Palestinian organizer, is eligible for deportation. The ruling accepted a memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that Khalil's "beliefs, statements or associations" are counter to U.S. foreign policy interests as sufficient evidence for removal of a lawful permanent resident. The judge determined she had no authority to rule on free speech concerns. Khalil, arrested by ICE in March, has been detained in Louisiana for over a month. His legal team plans to appeal and pursue an asylum case.

Supporting reports

• Executive Order on Border Security — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14165 on January 20, 2025, directing the deployment of physical barriers and personnel to secure the U.S. southern border. The order mandates the resumption of the Migrant Protection Protocols, adjustments to parole policies, and prioritization of prosecuting border-related offenses. It aims to deter illegal immigration and enhance border security through various measures, including international cooperation and DNA identification requirements.
• National emergency declared at southern border — President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border of the United States, citing threats from cartels, criminal gangs, and illicit narcotics. The proclamation authorizes the use of the Armed Forces to support the Department of Homeland Security in securing the border, including constructing additional physical barriers and deploying personnel. The proclamation revokes a previous termination of the emergency and requires reports on actions taken and conditions at the border.
• President Trump declares a national energy emergency — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14156, declaring a national energy emergency. The order directs federal agencies to use emergency authorities to enhance domestic energy production, transportation, and infrastructure. It aims to address high energy prices and vulnerabilities in energy supply, particularly in the Northeast and West Coast regions. The order invokes the National Emergencies Act and the Defense Production Act to expedite energy-related projects and infrastructure improvements.
• Presidential Proclamation on Border Security — President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation declaring an ongoing invasion at the southern border of the United States. The proclamation suspends the entry of aliens involved in this invasion and imposes restrictions on their access to immigration provisions. The President directed the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, to take actions necessary to repel and remove aliens engaged in the invasion.
• Trump declares national border emergency — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border. This order allows for the deployment of US troops to the southern border to assist the Department of Homeland Security in controlling immigration. The declaration is part of a series of executive orders aimed at cracking down on immigration and unauthorized border crossings, despite a recent decrease in such crossings. The move has sparked controversy and is expected to face legal challenges.
• Trump declares national emergency at southern border — President Trump signed a national emergency declaration concerning the southern border, framing foreigners as national security threats. This declaration is part of a series of executive orders aimed at restricting immigration and increasing border security. The emergency declaration allows for the use of military resources to enforce border control and aims to achieve "complete operational control" of the border, defined as zero unlawful entries.
• Trump declares national energy emergency — On his first day back in office, Donald Trump declared a national energy emergency, allowing his administration to expedite permits for new fossil fuel infrastructure. This declaration is part of a broader agenda to increase oil and gas production, including lifting restrictions on drilling in Alaska and resuming liquefied natural gas exports. The move is expected to face legal challenges due to questions about the legitimacy of the emergency. The declaration aims to boost national security and job creation by increasing natural resource production.
• Trump declares national energy emergency to bypass environmental permitting rules — On his first day back in office (January 2025), Trump declared a national "energy emergency" to accelerate permitting for oil and gas projects and override environmental regulations. The declaration claimed to address a purported energy crisis, though the U.S. produces more oil and gas than any other nation. Fifteen Democratic state attorneys general sued to halt the declaration, arguing it unlawfully bypassed normal permitting procedures and endangered natural resources and drinking water standards.
• Trump declared emergency at southern border and requested Insurrection Act advice — When Trump declared an emergency at the southern border on January 20, he ordered the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security to advise him whether they thought it necessary to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act. That act allows a president during times of civil unrest to use the military against U.S. citizens. The article notes that this action, combined with the administration's apparent willingness to deport people without due process, has raised alarm among Americans about the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act.
• Executive Order Clarifying Military's Role in Border Protection — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order clarifying the military's role in protecting the territorial integrity of the United States. The order directs the Secretary of Defense to revise the Unified Command Plan, assigning the United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) the mission to secure the borders against unlawful mass migration, narcotics trafficking, and other criminal activities. The order emphasizes the military's role in maintaining national sovereignty and security along the borders, citing a national emergency at the southern border.
• Trump Declares National Energy Emergency — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring a national energy emergency. The order directs federal agencies to utilize emergency authorities to enhance the identification, leasing, production, transportation, refining, and generation of domestic energy resources. It emphasizes the need for a reliable and diversified energy supply to support national security and economic stability. The order also calls for expedited infrastructure projects and emergency regulations to address energy supply issues, particularly in the Northeast and West Coast regions of the United States.
• Trump issues executive order to secure U.S. borders — On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order titled "Securing Our Borders." The order mandates the construction of physical barriers and deployment of personnel along the southern border to achieve complete operational control. It also calls for the resumption of the Migrant Protection Protocols, adjustments to parole policies, and increased cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The order aims to deter illegal immigration, prioritize the prosecution of border-related offenses, and enhance international cooperation to secure the border.
• President Trump declared a national energy emergency under the National Emergencies Act — President Trump signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, declaring a national energy emergency. The order directs federal agencies to use all available lawful authorities—including emergency powers under the Defense Production Act and eminent domain—to accelerate energy identification, leasing, production, transportation, refining, and generation on federal lands. It instructs agencies to expedite infrastructure projects, invoke emergency permitting under the Clean Water Act, and apply emergency consultation procedures under the Endangered Species Act to facilitate energy development. The order establishes quarterly convening of the Endangered Species Act Committee to review exemption applications and identify regulatory obstacles to energy infrastructure.
• Trump declares national emergency at southern border and invokes military deployment authority — President Trump issued a proclamation declaring a national emergency at the southern border, invoking the National Emergencies Act and directing the Secretary of Defense to deploy Armed Forces units, including the Ready Reserve and National Guard, to support Department of Homeland Security operations. The proclamation authorizes construction of additional physical barriers, directs waiver of FAA and FCC regulations for unmanned systems within 5 miles of the border, and requires revision of use-of-force policies. It revokes the prior emergency termination proclamation and directs reports within 30 and 90 days, the latter to include recommendations on invoking the Insurrection Act.
• Trump issued proclamation declaring southern border "invasion" and suspending entry of migrants — President Trump signed a proclamation on January 20, 2025, declaring the southern border situation an "invasion" under Article IV, Section 4 of the Constitution. The proclamation suspends physical entry of aliens "engaged in the invasion" across the southern border, restricts their access to asylum provisions (Section 208 of the INA), and directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to "repel, repatriate, or remove" such aliens. The order applies to aliens who fail to provide medical, criminal history, or background information before entry. Trump asserts inherent constitutional authority to take these actions independent of statutory immigration law.
• Trump declared national emergency at southern border — On January 20, 2025, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, allowing federal funds to be used to build a border wall without Congressional approval. This declaration is part of Trump's ongoing efforts to enhance border security and control immigration. The move bypasses legislative oversight and has sparked legal and political challenges.
• Executive Order on Military's Role in Border Protection — On January 20, 2025, Trump signed an executive order declaring an emergency at the southern US border along with several immigration-related policies. Trump stated in his inauguration speech "All illegal entry will immediately be halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came." The declaration paves the way to send US troops to the border and fulfills campaign promises for hardline immigration policies. Immigrant communities have braced for Trump's promised "largest deportation program in American history."
• White House signed executive order assigning military border enforcement mission to USNORTHCOM — President Donald J. Trump issued Executive Order 14167, clarifying the military's role in protecting U.S. territorial integrity. The order directs the Secretary of Defense to revise the Unified Command Plan, assigning USNORTHCOM the mission to secure borders against unlawful migration and criminal activities. The order emphasizes the military's role in maintaining national sovereignty and security along the southern border.
• Trump declares national emergency at US-Mexico border — The White House signed an executive order on January 20, 2025, directing the Secretary of Defense to revise the Unified Command Plan within 10 days to assign U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) a mission to "seal the borders" and repel what the order characterizes as "forms of invasion" including unlawful mass migration, narcotics trafficking, and human smuggling. The order also directs USNORTHCOM to develop contingency and campaign plans for steady-state southern border security operations.
• Trump plans to declare border emergency — President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency at the southern US border. This action is part of a series of hardline immigration policies, including plans to deploy US troops to the border and initiate mass deportations.
• President Trump signs executive order declaring national emergency at southern border — President Trump declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border, citing the need to halt illegal entry and return undocumented migrants. This declaration is part of a broader immigration crackdown and includes designating criminal cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations." The move is expected to lead to increased military presence at the border.
• Trump to deploy troops to US-Mexico border — President Donald Trump declared a national energy emergency, allowing his administration to fast-track permits for new fossil fuel infrastructure. This declaration is part of a broader effort to roll back climate policies and promote fossil fuel production. The order is likely to face legal challenges due to its environmental implications.
• Trump sends troops to southern border — Donald Trump plans to declare a national emergency at the US border, using Title 42 to trigger public health emergency powers similar to those used during the Covid pandemic. This declaration aims to prevent migrants from entering or staying in the country. However, this approach faces a significant hurdle as only the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can declare such emergencies.
• Department of Defense orders military personnel to the border — President Trump signed an executive order on January 22, 2025, invoking the National Emergencies Act regarding the southern border. The order directs the Secretary of Defense to deploy additional Armed Forces and National Guard personnel to the border, and instructs the Secretaries of Defense and Homeland Security to complete the border wall and expand air mission flexibility. The fact sheet characterizes the action as a response to what it claims are record illegal immigration encounters and associated harms.
• Trump declares national emergency at the southern border — The Pentagon is preparing to deploy up to 1,500 active-duty troops to the US-Mexico border as part of President Donald Trump's new immigration enforcement strategy. This move is part of a series of executive actions targeting immigration, including the suspension of the refugee resettlement program. The deployment, authorized by acting defense secretary Robert Salesses, will add to the 2,500 army reserve and national guard soldiers already supporting federal law enforcement at the border. The exact role of the troops remains unclear, but the deployment marks a significant militarization of the border.
• Trump deploys military to southern border — The Trump administration deployed 1,000 soldiers and 500 Marines to the southern U.S. border. The Marines were redirected from California, where they were on standby for wildfire threats. This deployment is being treated as a military operation, with troops armed and prepared for engagement. The move comes despite border crossings being at their lowest in over four years.
• — The Department of Defense announced the deployment of 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the southern border, joining an existing contingent of 2,500 troops. This deployment is part of Trump's directive to make homeland security a core mission of the agency, which includes providing support for deportations.
• — President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border, despite lower border crossings compared to previous years. He directed the Defense Department and Homeland Security to consider invoking the Insurrection Act, which would allow military deployment to suppress domestic unrest. This declaration follows his push to eliminate a bipartisan immigration measure aimed at expediting asylum hearings.
• — Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses announced the deployment of 1,500 active-duty military personnel to the southern border of the United States, joining 2,500 already present. This action follows Trump's declaration of a national emergency at the border and raises concerns about the militarization of domestic issues.

Supporting reports

• Presidential Pardons and Commutations for January 6 Offenses — The President issued a proclamation granting pardons and commuting sentences for individuals convicted of offenses related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol events. The proclamation commutes sentences to time served for specific individuals and grants full pardons to others. The Attorney General is directed to issue certificates of pardon and ensure the release of those currently imprisoned. Pending indictments related to the events are to be dismissed with prejudice.
• Biden commutes life sentence of Leonard Peltier — President Joe Biden commuted the life sentence of Leonard Peltier, an Indigenous activist convicted of the 1975 murder of two FBI agents. Peltier, who is 80 years old and in poor health, will serve the remainder of his sentence in home confinement. The commutation was supported by various groups, including Tribal Nations and human rights organizations, due to Peltier's age, health, and the length of his imprisonment. Peltier has maintained his innocence, and his case has been criticized for prosecutorial misconduct and withheld evidence.
• Biden issues last-minute pardons — Former President Joe Biden issued last-minute pardons to several individuals, including family members, former officials, and members of the January 6 Capitol attack investigative committee. The pardons were intended to protect these individuals from potential retribution by the incoming administration of Donald Trump. Biden emphasized that the pardons should not be seen as an admission of guilt. The move has sparked criticism from both political sides, with concerns about the implications of preemptive pardons and their potential to undermine the rule of law.
• Biden issues pre-emptive pardons to politicians and family members — On the last day of his presidency, Joe Biden issued pre-emptive pardons to several politicians, public servants, and family members. This included figures like Anthony Fauci, Mark Milley, Liz Cheney, and Adam Kinzinger, as well as members of the House committee that investigated the January 6 Capitol attack. Biden's family members, including his brothers and sister, were also pardoned. The pardons were issued to protect these individuals from potential "revenge" prosecutions by the incoming Trump administration.
• Trump issued over 1,600 clemency acts since second term, bypassing standard review process; at least a dozen beneficiaries arrested for subsequent crimes — President Trump has granted clemency to more than 1,600 people since taking office in his second term, most for January 6 Capitol rioters, without following the traditional Justice Department review process. Legal experts note that at least a dozen clemency recipients have been arrested for separate crimes after their release, including individuals convicted of child exploitation, burglary, theft, and assault. Trump reportedly bypassed the Office of the Pardon Attorney review, issuing 1,500 pardons on his first day in office. Experts argue this approach undermines the rule of law and signals to recipients that their original conduct was acceptable.
• Trump issues 1,500 pardons over January 6 attack — On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump issued "full, complete and unconditional" presidential pardons for approximately 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. This action fulfilled a campaign promise made by Trump during his second presidential term. The pardons included individuals convicted of violent acts during the insurrection. Trump also commuted sentences for more than a dozen cases and directed the Department of Justice to dismiss all pending indictments related to the January 6 events. The move has been criticized by democracy advocacy groups as an affront to the rule of law.
• Trump issues mass pardons and commutations for January 6 Capitol attack defendants — On January 20, 2025, President Trump granted "full, complete and unconditional" pardons to approximately 1,500 people charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol attack, including those convicted of violent acts. He also issued sentence-shortening commutations for more than a dozen cases and directed the Department of Justice to dismiss all pending indictments related to the attack. Former Capitol attack prosecutor Greg Rosen resigned and criticized the pardons as sending "a terrible message" that political violence toward political goals is acceptable in a democratic society.
• Trump pardoned January 6 attackers — On January 20, Donald Trump issued unconditional pardons to 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, including Emily Hernandez. Hernandez had previously served 30 days in federal prison for her role in the attack. The pardons were part of Trump's actions at the start of his second presidency. This clemency has been criticized for potentially encouraging violence in support of Trump, as noted by California Democratic Senator Adam Schiff.
• Trump pardoned January 6 rioters — On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump, after retaking the presidency, issued a mass clemency for over 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack, including Matthew Huttle. This act of clemency was criticized by various groups, including the Fraternal Order of Police, who argued that such pardons undermine the rule of law and public safety. The pardons have led to further legal issues for some of the recipients, including Huttle, who was later involved in a fatal encounter with law enforcement.
• Trump pardons January 6 insurrectionists — President Donald Trump issued pardons, commuted sentences, or dismissed cases for over 1,500 individuals charged with crimes related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. This sweeping action included more than 250 people convicted of assault charges, some of whom attacked police officers. The pardons have sparked controversy, with some Republican senators condemning the move, while others have supported it. Police unions expressed disappointment, and the pardons are seen as a loyalty test for the Republican party.
• Trump pardons January 6 rioter Andrew Taake — On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump announced and signed pardons for individuals involved in the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol. This decision was made during his inauguration ceremony and was part of a broader set of executive actions aimed at reversing Biden-era policies. The pardons were presented as a gesture of support for those Trump referred to as "J6 hostages," conflating them with other hostages held abroad.
• Trump pardons January 6 rioters — Former President Donald Trump issued a pardon for Andrew Taake, a convicted participant in the January 6 Capitol attack, at the start of his second presidency. Taake had been sentenced to prison for assaulting police officers during the insurrection. Despite the pardon, Taake faced unresolved charges related to soliciting a minor, which were filed before the Capitol attack. His release from federal prison was part of a controversial blanket pardon for 1,500 individuals involved in the insurrection.
• Trump signs executive orders pardoning January 6 convicts — On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump, upon retaking the presidency, issued blanket pardons or commutations to 1,500 individuals charged or convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. This decision has faced bipartisan criticism, particularly from law enforcement organizations, for undermining accountability and the rule of law. The pardons were a key campaign promise by Trump during his bid to return to the Oval Office. The Fraternal Order of Police and the International Association of Chiefs of Police have publicly condemned the pardons.
• Trump pardoned Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio and commuted Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes's sentence — On his first day back in office, President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders, including granting full pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted of charges related to the January 6 Capitol attack. This move was part of a broader set of actions taken by Trump to assert control over the federal government and reshape the executive branch according to his agenda. The pardons were issued during a signing ceremony at the US Capitol, marking a significant and controversial use of presidential power.
• Trump issued pardons and commutations for Capitol insurrection participants — Upon taking office in 2025, Trump pardoned Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, who had been sentenced to 22 years in prison for his role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack intended to overturn the 2020 election results. Trump also commuted the sentence of Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes to time served, releasing him from prison after Rhodes had been sentenced to 18 years for his role in the same attack.
• Trump issued proclamation commuting sentences and pardoning January 6 Capitol riot participants — On his first day as president, Trump issued sweeping pardons and commutations for individuals involved in the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection. In the presidential action, Trump characterized the pardons and commutations as ending "a grave national injustice," effectively reversing criminal accountability for participants in the violent attack on the Capitol building that disrupted the peaceful transfer of power.
• Trump pardons Jan. 6 rioters — President Trump issued a proclamation on January 20, 2025, commuting the sentences of 14 individuals convicted of offenses related to the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot to time served, and granting full pardons to all other individuals convicted of offenses related to those events. The proclamation directs the Attorney General to issue certificates of pardon immediately, release all such individuals from prison, and pursue dismissal with prejudice of all pending indictments related to January 6 conduct.
• Approximately 1,500 January 6 defendants pardoned or commuted at start of 2025 term — On January 20, 2025, President Trump pardoned more than 1,200 convicted Jan. 6 rioters, including the leader of the Proud Boys, and commuted the sentence of the leader of the Oath Keepers. He also directed the Justice Department to drop 300 pending cases related to the 2021 insurrection. These actions have been criticized for undermining the rule of law and accountability for the insurrection.
• Trump commuted sentences of Proud Boys and Oathkeepers leaders — The Trump administration pardoned or commuted approximately 1,500 defendants charged or convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, including high-profile leaders convicted of seditious conspiracy. The action occurred at the start of the 2025 term and was documented through reporting roundups and case coverage.
• Trump commuted sentences of Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht — Donald Trump commuted the sentences of leaders from the Proud Boys and Oathkeepers, as well as individuals involved in violent acts against police officers during the January 6th Capitol riot. This decision has sparked significant backlash from law enforcement and political figures, who view it as undermining the rule of law and justice for those who attacked officers.
• Trump issued pardons and commutations for January 6 defendants — Donald Trump commuted the two life sentences of Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road dark web marketplace. Ulbricht's platform was known for facilitating illegal drug transactions globally. The commutation of his sentence raises concerns about the message it sends regarding cybercrime and drug trafficking.
• Trump issues pardons for January 6 defendants — On January 20, 2025, Trump issued pardons for offenders and commutations related to the January 6 Capitol attack. Trump directed the DOJ to dismiss cases currently in progress. Trump stated he pardoned approximately 1,500 defendants charged in the January 6 attack and issued six commutations. Trump made pardoning January 6 defendants a core campaign promise, featuring prisoners singing the national anthem at rallies. DOJ investigations into January 6 crimes are expected to cease.
• Trump plans mass pardons for January 6 defendants — President Donald Trump issued pardons for approximately 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the January 6 Capitol attack. He also directed the Department of Justice to dismiss ongoing cases. This action fulfills a campaign promise and is expected to halt federal investigations into the events of January 6.
• Trump signs executive orders pardoning January 6 rioters — Donald Trump has promised to begin reviewing cases for pardons of January 6 defendants within the first nine minutes of his presidency. With over 1,580 defendants charged and 1,270 convicted, this could represent one of the largest mass pardons in American history. Many potential recipients have already completed their sentences, making some pardons largely symbolic.
• Trump pardons Enrique Tarrio for January 6 role — Donald Trump, in his second term as US president, signed executive orders granting "full, complete and unconditional" pardons to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6 attack on Congress. This includes rightwing extremists convicted of seditious conspiracy. The pardons were part of a series of executive actions taken by Trump upon his return to the White House. The move has been criticized as an insult to the justice system and those who defended the Capitol.
• Trump grants full pardon to Andrew Zabavsky for January 6 Capitol riot convictions — Former President Donald Trump issued pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 insurrection. This decision has been met with criticism from law enforcement organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police and the International Association of Chiefs of Police, who argue that it undermines accountability and could embolden future acts of violence against law enforcement.
• Trump grants full pardon to Terence Sutton for January 6 convictions — Former President Donald Trump pardoned Enrique Tarrio, the leader of the Proud Boys, for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot. Tarrio, who was released from prison on January 22, 2025, expressed gratitude to Trump, stating that the pardon "literally gave me my life back." Tarrio's release and pardon have emboldened far-right militia groups, who are now regrouping and planning their next steps. The pardons have sparked concern among law enforcement officers who were involved in the January 6 cases, fearing for their safety.
• Trump issues pardon for DC police officers — President Donald Trump commuted the sentences of or pardoned all individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. This action was met with mixed reactions, including disapproval from some Republican lawmakers and the D.C. Police Union, which expressed dismay over the pardons. The move signals Trump's intent to support his base while undermining the judicial system's accountability efforts.
• Executive Order on AI Leadership — President Trump issued an executive grant of clemency on January 22, 2025, granting Andrew Zabavsky a full and unconditional pardon for convictions in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Zabavsky was convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 371 (conspiracy) and § 1512 (obstruction), sentenced on September 12, 2024, to 48 months imprisonment on each count (concurrent), 3 years supervised release, and a $200 special assessment. The pardon nullifies the sentence and conviction.
• Trump issued pardons for January 6 participants — President Trump issued an executive grant of clemency on January 22, 2025, granting a full and unconditional pardon to Terence Sutton. Sutton had been convicted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on charges including violations of D.C. Code § 2103, 18 U.S.C. § 371 (conspiracy), and 18 U.S.C. § 1512 (obstruction of justice). He was sentenced on September 12, 2024, to concurrent sentences totaling 66 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and a $300 special assessment. The pardon erases the conviction and sentence.
• Trump issues pardons for January 6 participants — President Trump issued a "full and unconditional pardon" on January 22, 2025, to two DC police officers involved in the death of 20-year-old Karon Hylton-Brown. This action has sparked controversy and raised concerns about accountability and the message it sends regarding police conduct.
• Trump issues pardons for January 6 rioters — President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14179 on January 23, 2025, to remove barriers to American leadership in artificial intelligence (AI). The order revokes existing AI policies that hinder innovation and mandates the development of an action plan to sustain and enhance U.S. global AI dominance. It also requires a review and potential revision of policies inconsistent with this new directive.
• — Former President Donald Trump issued "full, complete and unconditional" pardons for 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. This move has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the decision while others, like Pamela Hemphill, have refused to accept the pardon. Hemphill, who was arrested for her involvement in the attack, insists on taking responsibility for her actions and plans to file a letter of rejection for the pardon.
• — Former President Donald Trump issued pardons to over 1,500 individuals involved in the January 6 insurrection, including those convicted of assaulting police officers. The pardons were criticized by federal judges, who described them as based on a "revisionist myth" and incapable of erasing the violence and terror of the event. The pardons have caused division within the Republican Party, with some members supporting the move and others, like Mitch McConnell, condemning it. The pardons were issued as one of Trump's first acts upon taking office.
• — Trump decided to pardon or commute the sentences of all individuals convicted for their involvement in the January 6 riots, including those who attacked police officers. This decision has sparked controversy and concern, particularly from law enforcement groups and victims of the riots. Critics argue that this undermines the rule of law and public safety. Jackson Reffitt, a key witness against his father, expressed fear for his safety now that his father is free.
• — President Donald Trump, in an interview, defended his pardons for January 6 rioters, downplaying the violence against police officers during the Capitol attack. Approximately 600 rioters faced charges related to assaulting law enforcement, with ten convicted of sedition. Trump's actions have drawn criticism from federal judges who emphasize the importance of maintaining the integrity of the judicial process. The pardons have sparked discussions among pardoned rioters about running for office, indicating a potential shift in political dynamics.
• — President Donald Trump issued pardons for nearly two dozen individuals convicted in connection with the January 6 Capitol riot, claiming the violence against police was minor. This action has drawn criticism from federal judges and has implications for ongoing legal proceedings against other defendants. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly emphasized that pardons do not alter the historical record of the events of January 6.