Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Federal prosecutors acknowledge full grand jury never saw final Comey indictment — Federal prosecutors admitted in a Wednesday hearing that the full grand jury in James Comey's case never reviewed the final indictment filed against him. Only the grand jury foreperson and one other juror saw the revised two-count indictment; the full jury had rejected a third charge. Comey's lawyers argue the indictment is therefore null and the case should be dismissed on grounds of selective and vindictive prosecution. Prosecutors contend the omission is harmless because the two counts match those the jury previously approved.
• Federal judge questioned validity of Comey indictment grand jury process — During a court hearing, a federal judge questioned Trump's former lawyer and handpicked prosecutor, Lindsey Halligan, about the validity of her grand jury indictment against former FBI Director James Comey. Halligan confirmed that the grand jury had never seen the final indictment that was returned against Comey, a move that could jeopardize the case. Another prosecutor in the case told the judge that Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche's office ordered them not to disclose whether a memo was written that recommended against indicting Comey before Halligan moved forward with the grand jury.
• Judge Nachmanoff questions prosecutor Halligan in Comey vindictive prosecution hearing — U.S. District Court Judge Michael Nachmanoff held a hearing to consider whether the prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey was vindictive. During the hearing, Judge Nachmanoff questioned prosecutor Lindsay Halligan, who admitted she had shown the final Comey indictment not to the entire grand jury but only to two of the grand jurors. A prosecutor working with Halligan also revealed that prior prosecutors had drafted a memo explaining why they would not prosecute Comey, and that someone in the deputy attorney general's office instructed him not to admit that information in court.
• Indictment of James Comey by Justice Department — The Justice Department, under pressure from President Trump, indicted former FBI director James Comey for obstruction of justice and making false statements to Congress. The indictment followed a controversial appointment of a new prosecutor, Lindsay Halligan, who faced scrutiny over her handling of the case and the grand jury proceedings.
• Judge Questions Legality of Comey Indictment — During a hearing regarding the indictment of James Comey, U.S. District Court Judge Michael Nachmanoff questioned prosecutor Lindsay Halligan about irregularities in the grand jury proceedings. It was revealed that Halligan had not presented the final indictment to the entire grand jury and had misled them regarding the evidence.
• Judge questions validity of Comey indictment — During a hearing regarding the indictment of James Comey, U.S. District Court Judge Michael Nachmanoff questioned prosecutor Lindsay Halligan about irregularities in the grand jury process. Halligan admitted to not presenting the final indictment to the entire grand jury, raising concerns about the integrity of the prosecution.

Supporting reports

• CBP agents raid OurBridge after-school program in Charlotte — On Monday, November 18, 2025, Customs and Border Protection agents attempted to raid OurBridge, an after-school program serving children from multiple countries including Tanzania. The program's director stated the raid's goal was to "instill fear" and called it "unnecessary, unacceptable and another direct attack on the safety of our community." OurBridge halted services indefinitely and staff ceased media engagement.
• ICE agents raid Latino church in Charlotte during weekend enforcement — During the weekend of November 19–20, 2025, immigration agents raided a Latino church in Charlotte, making an arrest in front of the congregation. The raid caused attendees to scatter into the woods. The incident led to cancellation of a scheduled entrepreneurship event at Camino church on Thursday, November 20, as organizers prioritized community safety.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge finds government misconduct in DOJ prosecution of James Comey — Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick ruled that the Department of Justice engaged in a "disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps" in securing criminal charges against former FBI Director James Comey for allegedly lying to Congress in 2020. The judge found fundamental misstatements of law presented to the grand jury, use of potentially privileged communications, and unexplained irregularities in grand jury transcripts. Fitzpatrick ordered prosecutors to produce all grand jury materials to Comey's defense team, citing concerns that the DOJ's approach was to "indict first and investigate later."
• Federal magistrate judge found prosecutor Lindsey Halligan provided false statements to grand jury in Comey case — A federal magistrate judge in Virginia ruled that Trump-appointed prosecutor Lindsey Halligan made false statements of law to a grand jury in the case against former FBI Director James Comey. The judge found a "disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps" and stated that Halligan's explanations "simply make no sense." The judge ordered grand jury materials released to Comey's legal team, finding the misstatements severe enough to potentially taint the indictment itself.
• Judge Fitzpatrick issued scathing ruling against interim US Attorney Lindsay Halligan for grand jury misconduct in Comey indictment — Judge William Fitzpatrick ruled that interim US Attorney Lindsay Halligan likely used illegally obtained evidence, privileged information, and made two false statements of law to the grand jury that indicted former FBI Director James Comey. The judge found Halligan presented only a single witness (an FBI agent exposed to privileged communications) and ordered all grand jury materials turned over to the defense. The court found a "disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps" and established grounds for potential dismissal of the indictment with prejudice.
• Federal judge found "disturbing pattern" of misconduct in Comey case — A federal judge ruled that prosecutors in former FBI Director James Comey's criminal case must turn over grand jury materials from his indictment. In his ruling, which was paused after the Justice Department appealed it, the judge wrote that "the record points to a disturbing pattern of profound investigative missteps" by Lindsey Halligan, Trump's handpicked interim US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, that could "undermine the integrity of the grand jury proceeding." The judge also found "genuine issues of misconduct" in the case.

Supporting reports

• Fed Reserve Governor Lisa Cook's lawyer complained of unequal DOJ mortgage investigation — Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook's lawyer wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi complaining that there is zero evidence his client intended to lie in her mortgage application. The lawyer noted that the DOJ is not investigating cases where Republicans, including Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, have possibly misrepresented their homes in mortgage applications, highlighting selective and unequal enforcement.

Supporting reports

• Trump posted memes instructing Attorney General to arrest political opponents — Trump posted memes on social media, including one featuring comedian Chris Farley screaming into Attorney General Pam Bondi's ear captioned as an instruction to "just arrest somebody," and a bingo card with X's over the faces of individuals he wants indicted, labeled "Obama's Russia Hoax Treason Club." These posts appear designed to communicate orders to the Department of Justice to prosecute political enemies.

Supporting reports

• Trump granted pardon to Binance founder Changpeng Zhao — Trump granted a pardon to Changpeng Zhao, founder of Binance, the cryptocurrency exchange. Binance had pleaded guilty to money-laundering violations in 2023 and agreed to pay a $4.3 billion penalty to the U.S. government after processing transactions for terrorist groups including Hamas and Al Qaeda. Zhao's pardon came after Binance participated in a $2 billion business deal with Trump's crypto firm World Liberty Financial in May.

Supporting reports

• Trump reversed position and called for House Republicans to vote for Epstein file release — President Trump posted on Sunday night, November 16, that he wants House Republicans to "vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide," reversing his prior opposition. By Monday afternoon, November 17, Trump stated he would sign the bill if it reached his desk. The reversal followed sustained public pressure and constituent calls to representatives.
• Trump reversed course on Epstein files, calling release a "Democrat Hoax" — On Truth Social, Trump reversed his earlier position and said House Republicans "should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide," but then characterized the effort as a "Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics" designed to deflect from Republican success. The reversal came after initially opposing the release.
• Trump reverses opposition to Epstein files release — President Trump reversed his months-long opposition to the Epstein Files Transparency Act after it became clear the bill would pass the Republican-controlled House with substantial GOP support. Trump initially dismissed the issue as a "Democrat hoax" and "cover up" narrative, but shifted to public indifference, stating "I DON'T CARE!" on social media and later telling reporters he would allow the files' release while urging the media not to focus on the scandal.
• Trump reverses position and calls for release of Epstein files — President Trump reversed his previous opposition to releasing the Epstein files on November 17, 2025, calling for their disclosure and labeling the controversy a "Democrat hoax." Trump's reversal followed failed White House efforts to persuade Republican members Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace to withdraw from a discharge petition. Trump told reporters he would sign the bill if it reached his desk, though he retains veto power.
• Trump reverses position and calls for release of Epstein files after failed pressure campaign on House Republicans — President Trump spent the previous week pressuring House Republicans, including Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace, to oppose the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. When the measure appeared likely to pass despite his efforts, Trump reversed course and publicly called for Republicans to support the release on Sunday evening via Truth Social. The reversal represents a rare instance of Trump being unable to control his MAGA base and being forced to accede to grassroots pressure rather than lead it.
• Trump reversed position on Epstein files release after House discharge petition neared completion — After initially fighting the release of FBI-collected Epstein investigation files, Trump abruptly reversed course on the evening of November 17, posting that House Republicans should vote to release the files "because we have nothing to hide." This reversal came as a discharge petition neared the threshold to force a House vote, with reports indicating as many as 100 House Republicans prepared to support release despite Trump's earlier opposition. Trump later told reporters he would sign the measure if it reached his desk.
• Trump reverses position and endorses Epstein records release bill — After five months of resisting the release of justice department files on Jeffrey Epstein, President Trump reversed course and called on Republican lawmakers to support the House bill forcing disclosure. Trump's initial opposition had prompted bipartisan pushback from Representatives Massie and Khanna. His reversal came hours before the House vote and secured the bill's passage with overwhelming bipartisan support.
• Trump Calls for Release of Epstein Files — President Donald J. Trump reversed his previous opposition and urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing FBI files related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating, "we have nothing to hide." This shift came after significant pressure from House Republicans and public demand for transparency regarding the files. The House is set to vote on a discharge petition that would require the Justice Department to release the files.
• Trump signed H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, into law on November 19, 2025 — President Donald J. Trump reversed his position and urged House Republicans to vote in favor of releasing FBI files related to Jeffrey Epstein, stating, “we have nothing to hide.” This shift came after significant pressure from within the party, as many House Republicans indicated they would support the release, despite Trump's previous opposition. The House is set to vote on a bill requiring the Justice Department to release these files.
• Trump signs Epstein Files Transparency Act into law — On November 19, 2025, President Trump signed H.R. 4405, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which Congress had passed the same day. The law required the Department of Justice to release all unclassified documents and records relating to Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs, immunity deals, internal DOJ communications about charging decisions, and documentation of Epstein's detention and death within 30 days, with redactions permitted only for classified information, victim privacy, child sexual abuse material, active investigations, and properly classified national defense or foreign policy information. All other redactions required written justification in the Federal Register and to Congress.
• Trump signed Epstein files release bill into law — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law after initially opposing its passage for months and later claiming indifference to the outcome. Trump announced the signing on social media in the evening of November 19, 2025.
• Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law. — In a rant on Truth Social, Trump announced that he signed the bill forcing the Justice Department to release the Epstein files into law. It's unclear how many of the files will be released by the DOJ, considering the legislation notes that the attorney general can withhold or redact any information that names victims or could interfere with a current federal investigation.
• Trump signs bill directing DOJ to release Epstein investigation files — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law on November 20, 2025. The law requires the Department of Justice to release all unclassified Epstein-related records, including flight logs, witness interview transcripts, immunity deals, non-prosecution agreements, internal DOJ communications, and records related to Epstein's death in federal custody. The DOJ has 30 days from enactment (deadline December 20, 2025) to release the documents, with an exception for records tied to "ongoing investigations."
• Trump signs bill to release Epstein files — President Trump signed legislation on November 20, 2025, directing the Department of Justice to release files from the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The bill permits redaction of victims' identifying information but bars officials from withholding documents due to "embarrassment, reputational harm or political sensitivity." Trump reversed his earlier position opposing release after facing bipartisan pressure and indications the House would pass the measure. The legislation passed swiftly through both chambers after Trump signaled approval.
• Epstein Files Transparency Act Signed into Law — President Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation requiring the Department of Justice to release government files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The bill passed the House overwhelmingly and the Senate unanimously after a discharge petition overcame Speaker Mike Johnson's initial opposition. Congressman Ro Khanna, a key Democratic sponsor, warned Trump administration officials that failure to comply with the release requirement could result in prosecution for contempt of Congress or criminal violations.
• Trump signs law mandating DOJ release of Epstein documents within 30 days — President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, establishing a 30-day deadline for the Department of Justice to release unclassified materials related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The bill passed the House with 427 votes and the Senate by unanimous consent, marking rare bipartisan support. Trump had initially opposed the bill before reversing course amid party rebellion. Republican senators immediately warned Attorney General Pam Bondi against using exemptions to withhold or redact materials.
• Trump signals willingness to meet with NYC mayor-elect Mamdani — President Trump announced he had signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which mandates the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein's investigation. This decision came after the House and Senate passed the bill, despite Trump's earlier attempts to block its release. The announcement was made amidst Trump's ongoing efforts to shift focus to his administration's achievements.
• Trump posted demand for House Republicans to vote to release Epstein files — President Donald Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act into law, mandating the release of Department of Justice files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The law, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, requires the disclosure of unclassified materials in a searchable format, with exemptions for active investigations and materials depicting minors. Republican senators have warned Attorney General Pam Bondi against using these exemptions to withhold information, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
• House Republicans reversed positions on Epstein file release following Trump's post — President Trump signed legislation passed by Congress requiring the Department of Justice to release all files related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days. The law permits redactions only to protect victim identities but bars redactions based on embarrassment or political sensitivity. However, experts and transparency advocates warn that DOJ officials could exploit a provision allowing withholding of materials connected to ongoing law-enforcement investigations—particularly a newly announced Trump-directed investigation into Bill Clinton and other political opponents with Epstein associations—to block or delay full disclosure.
• — Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday that New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani "would like to meet with us" and that "we'll work something out." Mamdani confirmed his team had reached out to the White House to discuss federal policies affecting New York, particularly the affordability crisis. The potential meeting follows Trump's campaign attacks on Mamdani, including calling him a "communist lunatic," threatening to pull federal funding from NYC if he won, and suggesting stripping Mamdani of his citizenship. Mamdani will be sworn in as NYC's 111th mayor on January 1.
• — Trump posted on social media that House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, characterizing the matter as a "Democrat Hoax" and stating "we have nothing to hide." Trump claimed the files would deflect from Republican achievements and that Democrats would have released them before the election if they had anything. He also stated that some Republicans were being "used" and urged focus on Republican accomplishments instead.
• — Multiple House Republicans, including Rep. Troy Nehls and Republican Senate candidates Derek Dooley and Rep. Mike Collins, reversed their previous positions opposing the release of Epstein files immediately after Trump's social media post demanding the release. Nehls had days earlier called the release an "Epstein hoax" designed by Democrats to distract from Trump's administration but announced he would now vote to release the files, making unanimous release likely.

Supporting reports

• Border Patrol agents approached workers at residential property in Charlotte — Two CBP agents walked into the front yard of homeowner Rheba Hamilton on Saturday morning during Operation Charlotte's Web. One agent attempted to speak to workers in Spanish who were putting up Christmas decorations. The workers did not respond and the agents left without making arrests, but the incident made residents realize that no location was safe from enforcement activity.
• Border Patrol conducted "Operation Charlotte's Web" ICE raids in Charlotte, North Carolina, arresting 81 people in five hours. — Border Patrol launched coordinated immigration enforcement operations in Charlotte on Saturday, November 15, resulting in 81 arrests within five hours. The raids included documented cases of excessive force, such as a U.S. citizen having his car window smashed and being thrown to the ground despite presenting citizenship documents. The enforcement action prompted widespread fear in the community, with churches closing doors, dental clinics reporting cancelled appointments, and local businesses shuttering. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, who previously led operations in Chicago (3,000+ arrests) and Los Angeles, directed the Charlotte operation.
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department stated it does not participate in federal immigration enforcement — The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department emphasized that it is not involved in federal immigration enforcement and has no authority to enforce federal immigration laws. This statement clarified the department's non-participation in Operation Charlotte's Web.
• Operation Charlotte's Web arrested 81 people in five-hour immigration enforcement action — Federal Border Patrol agents launched "Operation Charlotte's Web" in Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday, November 15, arresting 81 people in approximately five hours. The operation, led by Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino and announced by DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, targeted what officials claimed were "violent criminal illegal aliens" and cited 1,400 unexecuted immigration detainers. On the ground, agents conducted stops at businesses, churches, apartment complexes, and residential areas; smashed car windows; and detained U.S. citizens including naturalized citizen Willy Aceituno, who was released only after producing citizenship documents. Local law enforcement did not participate. Hundreds of residents protested Saturday afternoon in uptown Charlotte.
• Willy Aceituno detained despite presenting U.S. citizenship documents — Willy Aceituno, a 46-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen, was stopped twice by Border Patrol agents on Saturday morning during Operation Charlotte's Web. During the second encounter, agents broke his car window, forced him from his vehicle, and threw him to the ground. When he stated he was an American citizen, agents detained him anyway and only released him after he produced citizenship documents. Aceituno reported agents questioned where he was born and expressed disbelief in his citizenship status.
• Federal immigration raids arrest 81 people in Charlotte, North Carolina — Federal Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents conducted Operation Charlotte's Web over the weekend of November 15–16, 2025, arresting at least 81 people in Charlotte, North Carolina. Videos showed agents chasing and apprehending people outside businesses; a U.S. citizen was forcibly removed from his vehicle; a teenage grocery store worker was arrested. Business districts in predominantly Latino neighborhoods came to a standstill. Local officials and advocacy groups reported this was the largest single-day immigration arrest in state history and criticized the lack of communication and constitutional violations.
• Federal immigration sweep in Charlotte, North Carolina — Federal immigration officers, including Customs and Border Protection and ICE agents, conducted enforcement operations in Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday. Targets included a church where an arrest was made while parishioners performed yard work, workers hanging Christmas lights, and individuals stopped while driving. Local reports indicate agents made stops without clear identification or explanation, and at least one U.S. citizen was forcibly removed from his vehicle. Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated the surge was to "ensure Americans are safe and public safety threats are removed."
• Top Border Patrol official and agents planned to leave Chicago area — CBS News reported on November 10 that top US Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino and some of his agents could soon leave the Chicago area after the Trump administration made plans for their departure.
• Federal immigration sweep in Charlotte, North Carolina detains 130+ people — The Trump administration deployed border patrol agents to Charlotte, North Carolina over the weekend in an operation titled "Charlotte's Web," resulting in the detention of at least 130 people. Federal agents conducted aggressive arrests near churches, apartment complexes, and stores, with reports of masked, heavily armed agents in unmarked vehicles. Governor Josh Stein and Mayor Vi Lyles condemned the operation, citing racial profiling, targeting of U.S. citizens, and fear-mongering despite declining crime rates in the city. The Department of Homeland Security claimed those arrested had criminal records, though it provided no conviction details.
• ICE and CBP conduct mass immigration enforcement sweep in Charlotte, North Carolina — US Customs and Border Protection agents, led by Gregory Bovino, conducted a large-scale immigration enforcement operation in Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday, resulting in 81 arrests. The operation, dubbed "Operation Charlotte's Web," targeted the Democratic-led city of 950,000 despite declining crime rates and fierce objections from local leaders. Reports indicate agents conducted sweeps near churches, apartment complexes, and other community spaces, causing widespread fear and prompting business closures and medical appointment cancellations among immigrant communities.
• Border Patrol Deployment in Charlotte — Border Patrol agents, led by Gregory Bovino, have been deployed to Charlotte, North Carolina, following their operations in Chicago. This move has raised concerns about racial profiling and the lack of due process, as reports indicate that at least one American citizen was racially profiled and forcibly removed from his vehicle. The presence of Border Patrol in Charlotte, a city with a significant immigrant population, has led to fears of increased racial profiling and deportations without due process. Protests and community actions are being organized in response to these developments.
• ICE and Border Patrol Deployment in North Carolina — The federal administration has deployed ICE and Border Patrol agents to the Raleigh/Durham area in North Carolina, causing significant disruption and fear among immigrant communities. This deployment is described as a tactic to destabilize communities and intimidate families. In response, local organizations such as SiembraNC and Southern Vision Alliance are mobilizing to provide support and protection for affected individuals. Community members are encouraged to report ICE sightings and participate in organized actions to safeguard vulnerable populations.
• CBP agents raid OurBridge after-school program in Charlotte — On Monday, November 18, 2025, Customs and Border Protection agents attempted to raid OurBridge, an after-school program serving children from multiple countries including Tanzania. The program's director stated the raid's goal was to "instill fear" and called it "unnecessary, unacceptable and another direct attack on the safety of our community." OurBridge halted services indefinitely and staff ceased media engagement.
• US Border Patrol conducts mass immigration raids in Charlotte, North Carolina — US Customs and Border Protection, led by regional chief Greg Bovino, conducted a series of immigration raids in Charlotte, North Carolina, resulting in over 100 arrests. The operation, called "Operation Charlotte's Web," involved agents conducting enforcement actions near churches, apartment complexes, and stores. Governor Josh Stein criticized the crackdown as "stoking fear." Legal experts note that while border patrol has authority to operate up to 100 miles from international boundaries (which includes Charlotte via the Atlantic coastline), operations outside that zone must comply with standard constitutional protections requiring reasonable suspicion or probable cause.
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district experiences mass absenteeism due to ICE enforcement fear — On Monday, November 18, 2025, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district (141,000+ students, ~30% Latino) recorded over 30,000 absences, compared to the normal 9,000–10,000. Teachers reported Hispanic students and families with undocumented members refusing to attend school out of fear of ICE enforcement. One teacher noted half her special-needs class was absent, with three Hispanic students citing fear. Parents kept children home, including a blind and autistic daughter, until they felt safe.
• ICE agents raid Latino church in Charlotte during weekend enforcement — During the weekend of November 19–20, 2025, immigration agents raided a Latino church in Charlotte, making an arrest in front of the congregation. The raid caused attendees to scatter into the woods. The incident led to cancellation of a scheduled entrepreneurship event at Camino church on Thursday, November 20, as organizers prioritized community safety.
• ICE and CBP surge enforcement operations in Charlotte, North Carolina, detaining citizens and noncitizens indiscriminately — Federal immigration agents from ICE and Customs and Border Protection launched "Operation Charlotte's Web" on November 19, 2025, surging enforcement across Charlotte and later Raleigh-Durham. The operation resulted in over 250 arrests statewide. Agents conducted warrantless stops, detained U.S. citizens including Puerto Rican-born Gerardo Ortiz twice, and raided an after-school program (OurBridge) serving children. The enforcement created widespread fear, causing 30,000+ school absences, business closures on immigrant-heavy Central Avenue, and community members to avoid work and public spaces.
• U.S. citizen Gerardo Ortiz detained twice by federal agents in Charlotte — Gerardo Ortiz, a Puerto Rican-born U.S. citizen, was detained twice by federal immigration agents on November 19 and 20, 2025, while protesting in Charlotte. Agents emerged from vans, restrained him with hands behind his back, and transported him 20 blocks away to a parking lot before releasing him. Ortiz reported severe emotional distress and stated he felt he had lost his liberty. He had no prior arrest history.

Supporting reports

• Trump ordered AG Pam Bondi to reopen Epstein investigation — Trump ordered Attorney General Pam Bondi to open a new investigation into the Jeffrey Epstein case after she had announced months earlier that she was closing it. Rep. Thomas Massie suggested this was a "smokescreen" to prevent release of Epstein files, noting that ongoing investigations can be used to withhold documents from public release.
• Attorney General Bondi opened investigations into Democrats' Epstein connections — Attorney General Pam Bondi opened investigations into several Democrats' connections to Jeffrey Epstein after Trump pressed her to do so, according to the article. Rep. Thomas Massie warned this action might be "a big smokescreen" to classify documents under "ongoing investigations," potentially blocking the release of Epstein files by claiming they are part of active investigations.
• Deputy AG Todd Blanche announced new Epstein investigation ordered by Trump — Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the DOJ will investigate whether anyone involved in the Epstein case has not been held accountable. The investigation was ordered by Trump following his social media posts about releasing Epstein files and characterizing the matter as a Democratic hoax.
• Trump ordered DOJ investigation of Democrats connected to Epstein to block document release — Trump previously ordered the Department of Justice to investigate Democrats connected to Epstein. He is now using this self-created investigation as justification for refusing to release Epstein files to Congress, claiming an "ongoing investigation" prevents disclosure. This represents a deliberate strategy to sabotage transparency and then cite his own sabotage as grounds for secrecy.
• Pam Bondi opens investigation into Democratic ties to Epstein at Trump's request — U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi opened an investigation into ties between Democrats and Jeffrey Epstein at President Trump's request. The action follows accusations that Bondi has undermined the Department of Justice's independence from the White House. The investigation occurs as the DOJ is now legally required to release Epstein-related files under the newly signed transparency law.
• Trump administration appoints prosecutor to investigate Clinton and Epstein-linked political opponents — At Trump's direction, Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed a prosecutor in New York to investigate Bill Clinton, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, and other political opponents with past associations with Jeffrey Epstein. Neither Clinton nor Hoffman has been accused of misconduct; both have publicly expressed regret for their Epstein associations. The investigation creates a legal basis under the Epstein documents law to withhold materials, potentially blocking transparency while targeting political rivals.
• Trump directs DOJ investigation into Epstein-linked figures — President Trump instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi on November 15, 2025, to open a Justice Department investigation into links between Jeffrey Epstein and former President Bill Clinton, economist Larry Summers, venture capitalist Reid Hoffman, and JPMorgan Chase. The investigation could enable the DOJ to withhold documents from any eventual Epstein file release on grounds that disclosure would prejudice the investigation.

Supporting reports

• Georgia prosecutor Pete Skandalakis appoints himself to take over Trump election interference case — Pete Skandalakis, executive director of Georgia's prosecuting attorneys' council and a Republican, appointed himself as prosecutor to replace Fani Willis on the state's election interference case against Donald Trump and others. Willis had been disqualified in September due to a conflict of interest involving her romantic relationship with special prosecutor Nathan Wade. Skandalakis stated he could not secure another prosecutor willing to take the case and appointed himself to conduct a comprehensive review and determine how to proceed, meeting a court deadline set by Judge Scott McAfee.
• Georgia Prosecuting Attorneys' Council deadline to assign new prosecutor for fake elector case — The Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia faces a November 14, 2025 deadline to assign a new prosecutor to the fake elector case after Fulton County DA Fani Willis was disqualified over allegations of a romantic relationship with lead prosecutor Nathan Wade. The Georgia Supreme Court upheld the disqualification. Council executive director Pete Skandalakis stated the council will continue the prosecution "without being influenced by matters outside the scope of our assigned task," signaling intent to proceed despite Trump's federal pardons, which do not apply to state crimes.

Supporting reports

• FBI launches domestic terrorism investigations into anti-ICE protest activity across 23 regions — The FBI opened "criminal and domestic terrorism investigations" into "threats against immigration enforcement activity" in at least 23 field office regions nationwide, according to an internal November 14 report obtained by the Guardian. The investigations are partly linked to Trump's September memo (NSPM-7) on countering "domestic terrorism," which characterized anti-ICE protests and anti-fascist activism as "violent and terroristic activities." The FBI report identifies "indicators" of planned attacks including online research about ICE personnel movements and use of encrypted messaging apps, raising civil liberties concerns about surveillance of First Amendment-protected activity.

Supporting reports

• Trump directs DOJ to open new Epstein investigation — President Trump directed the Department of Justice to open a new investigation into Epstein's ties to former President Bill Clinton, JPMorgan Chase officials, and others. The directive was issued on November 14, days before the House vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The statute authorizes DOJ to withhold records tied to "ongoing federal investigations," potentially allowing the department to justify withholding documents the transparency bill was designed to release.
• Trump ordered DOJ to open a new investigation into Epstein's ties to Bill Clinton, JPMorgan, and others. — President Trump ordered the Department of Justice to open a new investigation into Epstein's ties to Bill Clinton, JPMorgan, and others. This order was issued one week before Trump signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The timing creates potential for the "ongoing investigation" exception in the transparency law to be invoked to withhold records that would otherwise be required to be released within 30 days.
• Trump directs DOJ to investigate Democrats' ties to Epstein — President Trump instructed the Justice Department to investigate prominent Democrats' alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, who had previously stated that a review of Epstein files revealed no further investigative leads, agreed to comply and appointed a prosecutor to lead the effort. This action occurred amid the legislative push to release Epstein investigative files.
• Trump directed Attorney General Bondi to investigate Democrats named in Epstein documents — President Trump asked Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Democrats whose names appeared in documents released by the House Oversight Committee from the Epstein estate, specifically naming former President Bill Clinton, former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers, and LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman. Bondi responded that the Department of Justice "will pursue this with urgency and integrity." The Washington Post reported that these individuals' connections to Epstein had been covered by reporters for years, and that in July, Justice Department officials stated an FBI examination "did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties."
• Trump directed DOJ to investigate Epstein's connections to Democratic figures — Trump posted on Truth Social directing Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice to investigate Jeffrey Epstein's involvement and relationships with Bill Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, J.P. Morgan Chase, and others. Trump characterized the Epstein files release effort as a "hoax" and "Russia, Russia, Russia Scam" with arrows pointing to Democrats. The posts confirmed Trump personally directs criminal investigations and is targeting political opponents.

Supporting reports

• Seven detained immigrants sue ICE over inhumane conditions at California City facility — Seven people detained at California's largest ICE detention center filed a federal class-action lawsuit against the US government on Wednesday, alleging denial of essential medications, frequent hunger, and inhumane conditions at the California City facility opened in late August. The complaint describes "life-threatening" medical neglect, including denied cancer treatment, insulin for diabetes, and disability accommodations, along with allegations of sewage backups, extreme cold, punitive restrictions on family contact, and abusive staff conduct. The facility, run by CoreCivic and holding over 800 people, increased California's ICE detention capacity by 36%.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge orders release of hundreds detained in Chicago immigration raids — US District Judge Jeffrey Cummings ordered the release of hundreds of people arrested during Trump administration immigration raids in Chicago. The judge directed the Justice Department to produce a list of detainees still in custody by November 19 and set bond at $1,500 for those with no criminal history or prior removal orders. Cummings also prohibited the government from pressuring detainees to agree to voluntary deportation while cases are pending, citing violations of a 2022 consent decree governing warrantless arrests in the Chicago area.
• Federal judge ordered release of 600+ people from ICE detention in Illinois — CNN affiliate WLS reported on November 12 that a federal judge ordered the release of more than 600 people from ICE detention centers who were arrested during Trump's immigration crackdown in Illinois.
• Case update — Castanon Nava v. Department of Homeland Security (N.D. Ill.) 1:18-cv-03757 — District Court Judge Cummings ordered the release of a group of individuals on bond who had been detained as a part of ICE's “Operation Midway Blitz.”

Supporting reports

• Democrats release emails suggesting Trump knew about Epstein's criminal conduct — On November 12, 2025, Democratic lawmakers released three email exchanges from Jeffrey Epstein's correspondence that suggest President Trump had knowledge of Epstein's sex-trafficking crimes. In a 2011 email to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein wrote that Trump "spent hours" at his house with one of his victims and had "never once been mentioned" in connection with his crimes. A separate 2019 email to journalist Michael Wolff states Epstein knew Trump was aware of "the girls" because Trump had asked Maxwell to stop. A third email from 2015 discusses using Trump's denials as "political currency."
• House Oversight Democrats released Epstein estate emails showing Trump connection to trafficking victims — On November 12, 2025, House Oversight Committee Democrats released 23,000 documents subpoenaed from the Epstein Estate, including emails in which Epstein references Trump as "the dog that hasn't barked" and notes a trafficking victim "spent hours at my house with him." Additional emails from 2015 show Epstein and author Michael Wolff strategizing how to use knowledge of Trump's relationship with trafficking victims as leverage to create political "debt" if Trump won the presidency. The emails are now part of the congressional record.
• House Oversight Committee releases 20,000+ Epstein documents from estate — The House Oversight Committee released more than 20,000 documents obtained from Jeffrey Epstein's estate, including an email in which Epstein alleged that Trump "knew about the girls." The release reignited scrutiny of Trump's past ties to Epstein and intensified calls for full disclosure of justice department and FBI records. The White House subsequently accused Democrats of selectively leaking the materials to smear the president.
• House Committee on Oversight released additional 20,000 pages of Epstein estate documents — After Democrats released three emails from the Epstein estate, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released an additional 20,000 pages of documents from the same cache. The documents included emails in which Epstein offered tips on stories about Trump and young women to a New York Times financial reporter, offered photographs of "donald and girls in bikinis," and referenced Trump's payment of hush money to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. No story based on this information appeared in the New York Times before or after the 2016 presidential election.
• House Democrats released Epstein estate emails implicating Trump in knowledge of sexual misconduct — On November 12, the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform released three emails from the Epstein estate cache. The emails included correspondence in which Epstein referenced Trump as "the dog that hasn't barked" in his criminal investigation, stated Trump "knew about the girls," and discussed leverage Epstein held over Trump regarding his presence at Epstein's properties. The release followed the end of a 54-day government shutdown and preceded the swearing-in of Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva, whose vote would complete a discharge petition to force a House vote on releasing FBI files related to the Epstein investigation.
• House Oversight Committee releases Epstein emails contradicting Trump's denials of knowledge — On November 12, 2025, the House Oversight Committee released emails obtained from Jeffrey Epstein's estate that directly contradict President Trump's repeated public denials of knowledge about Epstein's crimes. A January 31, 2019 email shows Epstein telling journalist Michael Wolff that Trump "of course… knew about the girls." An April 2011 email to Ghislaine Maxwell states Trump had spent "hours at my house" with victim Virginia Giuffre, implying Trump's knowledge of Epstein's criminal activity. The White House disputed the release, claiming Democrats created a "fake narrative" through selective redaction.
• Democrats released Epstein emails suggesting Trump knew about abuse — Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released emails on November 12 written by Jeffrey Epstein that suggested he believed Trump may have known about his abuse. Among the emails was one where Epstein noted that Trump had "spent hours at my house" with one of his victims, and in a 2011 email to Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein wrote, "I want you to realize that that dog that hasn't barked is Trump."
• Democrats release emails from Epstein files — Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released a series of emails from the Epstein files, which suggest that Donald Trump may have been aware of Epstein's underage sex-trafficking activities. This release has intensified the political pressure on Trump, as it coincides with efforts to force a congressional vote on the full release of the files. The emails have fueled speculation and controversy, potentially affecting Trump's support among his political base.
• Public disclosure of 20,000+ pages of Jeffrey Epstein case files — More than 20,000 pages of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein were publicly released. Democratic House oversight committee members released three emails suggesting Donald Trump may have known more about Epstein's crimes than publicly acknowledged. Republican representatives subsequently released a larger cache of files. The disclosure reignited scrutiny of Epstein's relationships with powerful figures and raised questions about Trump's knowledge of Epstein's conduct toward victims.
• House Democrats release Epstein documents showing Trump's involvement in schemes — The House Oversight Committee, controlled by Democrats, released documents from Jeffrey Epstein's estate containing emails and communications that detail Trump's connections to Epstein and his activities. The documents include Epstein's own characterizations of Trump's business practices, references to Trump's visits to Epstein properties, and Epstein's communications with Russian officials about Trump. The release occurred after Republicans had long demanded the files be made public, expecting them to implicate Democratic figures instead.
• House Oversight released Epstein emails showing Trump's name in network — House Oversight released Epstein's emails as part of the congressional record, including April 2011 correspondence to Ghislaine Maxwell referencing Trump's visits and December 2015 emails strategizing how to leverage Trump's presence to create political "debt." The release occurred as part of transparency efforts following the discharge petition. The emails document Epstein's own characterization of Trump's involvement in his network.
• House Oversight Committee released Epstein estate documents showing elite connections — The House Oversight Committee released documents from the Epstein estate on November 12 showing a chummy friendship between Epstein and political, academic, and economic leaders who sought to retain access to his money, information, and connections even after he pleaded guilty to procuring a minor for prostitution.
• House Oversight Committee releases Epstein estate documents showing elite connections — The House Oversight Committee released documents from the Epstein estate on November 12 showing a chummy friendship between Epstein and political, academic, and economic leaders who sought to retain access to Epstein's money, information, and connections even after he pleaded guilty to procuring a minor for prostitution. The documents revealed connections between Epstein and prominent figures including Steve Bannon.
• Newly released Epstein documents reveal texting contact with House member during 2019 Cohen hearing — Newly released documents from Jeffrey Epstein's estate show the convicted sex offender was texting with a member of Congress during a February 2019 House oversight hearing featuring Michael Cohen's testimony against Donald Trump. Analysis by the Washington Post suggests the lawmaker was Stacey Plaskett, US Virgin Islands' Democratic delegate. Message timestamps and hearing video indicate Epstein may have influenced Plaskett's questioning of Cohen, including prompting her to ask about Trump executive assistant Rhona Graff. The documents were provided to Congress this week.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration formally said CFPB is legally prohibited from seeking additional funding — In a court filing on November 10, the Trump administration formally determined that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is legally prohibited from seeking additional funding from the Federal Reserve, a move that could result in the agency closing in early 2026 when current funds are exhausted unless Congress passes new funding, which is unlikely due to Republican opposition.
• Office of Legal Counsel issues opinion on CFPB Federal Reserve funding — The Department of Justice's Office of Legal Counsel issued a formal opinion claiming the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau cannot draw money from the Federal Reserve, arguing that "combined earnings of the Federal Reserve System" in the statute refers only to Fed profits rather than total earnings. Since the Federal Reserve has operated at a loss since 2022, the opinion concludes no funds are available to the CFPB under current law.
• Trump administration files court brief arguing CFPB funding mechanism is unlawful — The Trump administration's Department of Justice filed a court brief claiming the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's funding mechanism through the Federal Reserve is unlawful and that the agency will exhaust available funds by early 2026. The filing argues the CFPB cannot draw money from the Fed, citing an Office of Legal Counsel opinion that "combined earnings of the Federal Reserve System" refers only to Fed profits, which have operated at a loss since 2022. The brief sets the stage for the agency's dismantling absent new funding authority.

Supporting reports

• Trump pardons former police officer linked to Chinese government — Donald Trump pardoned Michael McMahon, a former police officer convicted of acting as an agent of the Chinese government, after McMahon attended a Trump event and expressed loyalty to him.

Supporting reports

• Rep. Raskin called for Trump to answer questions about Ghislaine Maxwell's preferential treatment — Rep. Jamie Raskin sent a letter to Trump on November 9 calling for the president to answer questions about Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell's preferential treatment at a minimum-security detention facility following interviews with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. The letter cited whistleblower information that Maxwell may seek a commutation and that federal law enforcement staff have been providing her special treatment.

Supporting reports

• Border Patrol Chief Bovino falsely claims agents came under fire in Chicago — Gregory Bovino, U.S. Border Patrol chief, claimed on social media and via DHS statement that agents conducting immigration enforcement near 26th Street and Kedzie Avenue in Chicago came under gunfire from an unknown male in a black Jeep. Chicago Police Department found no evidence of anyone struck by gunfire at the scene. The claim came two days after a federal judge found Bovino had lied about being struck by a rock during an earlier October confrontation with protesters in the same neighborhood.

Supporting reports

• Federal Judge Ellis finds Border Patrol Chief Bovino lied under oath about assault by protester — U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis in Chicago ruled that Gregory Bovino, Border Patrol chief, lied when he and the Department of Homeland Security claimed he had been struck in the head by a rock before throwing a tear gas canister at protesters on October 28. Video evidence showed Bovino was not hit until after he threw the tear gas, violating her earlier temporary restraining order limiting use of force. Bovino ultimately admitted he was not hit until after deploying the tear gas.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge Mark Wolf resigns citing Trump's weaponization of law — U.S. District Judge Mark Wolf, appointed by President Reagan in 1985, resigned on Friday, stating he could no longer remain silent about the Trump administration's use of law for partisan purposes. Wolf cited the targeting of political adversaries while sparing friends and donors from investigation and prosecution as contrary to his 50+ years in the Department of Justice and on the bench. He characterized the White House's assault on the rule of law as deeply disturbing and said silence was intolerable.
• Former federal judge Mark L. Wolf resigned to oppose Trump administration — Former U.S. District Judge Mark L. Wolf, appointed to the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts by President Ronald Reagan, announced his resignation on Friday, November 7, 2025, stating he wanted the freedom to do "everything in my power to combat today's existential threat to democracy and the rule of law." Wolf cited Trump's use of the Department of Justice against political opponents, firing of inspectors general, pay-to-play policies favoring wealthy donors, cryptocurrency corruption, unconstitutional executive orders, and threats against judges as reasons for his resignation. Because Wolf had taken senior status in 2013 with a successor already appointed, his resignation will not create a vacancy for Trump to fill.

Supporting reports

• Federal court hearing on ICE excessive force allegations in Chicago immigration raids — A federal court hearing in Chicago examined allegations of excessive force by ICE agents during immigration raids across the city. Witnesses testified that agents aimed guns at civilians recording arrests, used rubber bullets and pepper balls against media and protesters, and deployed teargas including at a children's Halloween parade. The hearing is part of a lawsuit filed by media organizations and protesters accusing ICE of a "pattern of extreme brutality" and efforts to silence the press and civilians. A senior border patrol official was shown on video throwing a teargas canister.

Supporting reports

• Sean Charles Dunn acquitted of assault for throwing sandwich at federal agent — Sean Charles Dunn, a former Department of Justice paralegal, was found not guilty of assault by a DC jury on November 6, 2025, after throwing a sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection agent during a protest on August 10, 2025, in Washington DC. Dunn's attorneys argued the sandwich throw was a harmless protest gesture, while prosecutors contended it was an assault. The acquittal represents another legal setback for federal law enforcement efforts during Trump's federal intervention in the capital.
• Jury acquits former DOJ paralegal of assault charge — On November 6, 2025, a jury acquitted Sean Dunn, a former DOJ paralegal, of a misdemeanor charge for allegedly throwing a salami submarine sandwich at a federal agent. The federal agent, wearing a bulletproof vest, had claimed the sandwich "exploded" against his chest, though the sandwich remained intact in its wrapper. The acquittal occurred after jury selection began on November 4.
• Sean Dunn acquitted of assault for throwing sandwich at Border Patrol agent — Sean Dunn, charged with assaulting Border Patrol agent Greg Lairmore by throwing a Subway sandwich, was found not guilty by jury. Lairmore testified the sandwich "exploded all over" his chest, but photographic evidence showed the sandwich remained in its wrapper on the ground after contact with Lairmore's bulletproof vest. The acquittal contradicted the agent's account of the incident's severity.

Supporting reports

• ICE arrested Oregon shop owner Juanita Avila without warrant despite valid green card — On November 5, 2025, ICE agents in Cottage Grove, Oregon, pulled over and arrested Juanita Avila, a legal permanent resident carrying her green card, without a warrant or stated probable cause. Agents tackled her, handcuffed her, and detained her for approximately 30 minutes before releasing her without charges. Her arrest became part of a class-action lawsuit challenging ICE's "arrest first, justify later" tactics. On February 4, 2026, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking ICE from conducting warrantless arrests in Oregon, finding the agency's conduct "brutal and violent" and in systematic violation of constitutional rights.

Supporting reports

• Steve Bannon encourages investigation of Mamdani — In an interview with Politico, former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon encouraged the Department of Homeland Security, the State Department, and the Justice Department to investigate Mamdani, saying he's "convinced" that the mayor-elect "did not get citizenship in a fair and honest way." He also suggested the DOJ should seek a temporary restraining order to block Prop 50 in California, "and drag it out for a year" to prevent the new congressional maps from taking effect.
• Steve Bannon calls for citizenship check on Mamdani — Steve Bannon told Politico that Zohran Mamdani's citizenship should be checked immediately by the State Department, DHS, and DOJ, stating "If the guy lied on his naturalization papers, he ought to be deported out of the country immediately and put on a plane to Uganda."