Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• US District Judge Kathleen Williams voided DOJ's $1.776 billion settlement with Trump — US District Judge Kathleen Williams voided the Department of Justice's $1.776 billion settlement with Trump, finding the litigation constitutionally defective under Article III because Trump, as head of the Executive Branch, controlled both the plaintiff and defendant agencies (Treasury and IRS), making them never genuinely adverse. The judge found no actual case or controversy occurred, no meaningful litigation preceded the settlement, and government lawyers never filed a response or defended the agencies. Williams imposed Rule 11 sanctions and referred one of Trump's attorneys for possible professional discipline.
• Federal Judge Voids Trump's $1.8 Billion IRS Settlement — A federal judge voided Trump's $1.8 billion settlement with the IRS that included an "anti-weaponization fund" and immunity from tax audits, ruling that the president's $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS was filed "to manipulate the judicial process." The judge sanctioned two of Trump's personal attorneys, banning one from practicing in the Southern District of Florida for at least one year, and suggested that acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and associate Attorney General Stan Woodward could face state bar investigations.
• Federal judge nullifies Trump tax-return settlement and sanctions president's lawyers — US District Judge Kathleen Williams in the Southern District of Florida voided a settlement agreement between the Trump administration and the president over a $10 billion lawsuit regarding leaked tax returns. The judge found the lawsuit was filed in bad faith and the settlement was collusive, designed to confer immunity on Trump and his family and create an $1.8 billion slush fund. Williams sanctioned Trump's lawyers, referred two to bar disciplinary proceedings, and blocked one from practicing in the district for one year.
• Federal judge ruled Trump's IRS lawsuit settlement was improper and manufactured — U.S. District Court Judge Kathleen Williams for the Southern District of Florida ruled that Trump, his lawyers, and Department of Justice lawyers had manufactured a fraudulent settlement of Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service. Williams found the lawsuit was brought "for an improper purpose—to gain the imprimatur of judicial legitimacy for a 'settlement' that had no viable basis in law or fact." The settlement was designed to establish a $1.776 billion slush fund for Trump loyalists and to grant Trump, his family, businesses, and associates immunity from prosecution for any tax crimes revealed by audits of tax returns filed before May 19, 2026.
• Federal judge rules against Trump's IRS lawsuit — On July 13, 2026, U.S. District Court Judge Kathleen Williams ruled that Trump and his legal team improperly manufactured a settlement in his $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS, which aimed to create a slush fund for Trump loyalists and grant immunity from prosecution for tax crimes. The judge found the lawsuit lacked a legitimate basis and recommended sanctions against some lawyers involved.
• Judge Williams recommended sanctions against lawyers involved in fraudulent settlement — Judge Kathleen Williams recommended legal sanctions against some of the lawyers involved in the fraudulent IRS settlement and expressed that she was "extremely troubled" by the testimony of Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, which she characterized as "at best, misleading and, at worst, disingenuous."
• E. Jean Carroll Receives Payment from Trump — E. Jean Carroll has received a $5.6 million payment from Donald Trump, confirmed by a court filing. This payment is part of a legal settlement related to a defamation case brought by Carroll against Trump.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge issues temporary order blocking "anti-weaponization" fund — A federal judge issued a temporary order preventing the Trump administration from establishing the nearly $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund while a lawsuit seeking to stop it is considered. The fund, which originated from a settlement after Trump sued the IRS over disclosure of his tax returns, had been proposed to compensate individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack.
• Federal judge temporarily blocks Trump's $1.8bn Anti-Weaponization Fund — US District Judge Leonie Brinkema issued a temporary restraining order on Friday barring the Trump administration from transferring money into or taking further action on a $1.8 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund." The fund was created to settle a $10 billion lawsuit filed by Trump and his sons over leaked tax returns, without the government mounting a legal defense. The order preserves the status quo pending legal arguments in a challenge brought by Democracy Forward and other plaintiffs, preventing irreversible disbursement of taxpayer funds.
• Judge Leonie Brinkema temporarily blocked Anti-Weaponization Fund — U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema for the Eastern District of Virginia issued a temporary order halting the Department of Justice from creating, operating, or distributing funds from the so-called Anti-Weaponization Fund, a $1.776 billion slush fund established by the Trump administration to compensate those convicted of crimes related to efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. The order prohibits the administration from transferring money to the fund, considering claims for payment, or paying out any funds. Brinkema scheduled a hearing on the case for June 12. The plaintiffs challenging the fund are people and entities prosecuted or threatened by the Trump administration who argue they are not being treated equally with Trump loyalists in compensation claims.
• Motion granted — Floyd v. Department of Justice (E.D. Va.) 1:26-cv-01399 — Judge Brinkema enjoined Defendants from taking any action related to the creation or operation of the Anti-Weaponization Fund, including transferring money to the Fund, considering submitted claims, or disbursing any funds. Judge Brinkema also denied the Plaintiffs' motion for expedited briefing and granted the Defendants' request for additional time.
• Federal Judge Brinkema temporarily blocked Trump's $1.776 billion fund for fraudsters and insurrectionists — Federal Judge Brinkema issued a temporary block on any further action involving Trump's $1.776 billion fund, preserving the status quo while litigation moves forward. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for June 12, 2026. The fund was characterized as being for "fraudsters and insurrectionists."
• Federal judge temporarily blocked Trump's $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund — U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema in Virginia issued a temporary restraining order preventing the Department of Justice from taking further action on the creation or operation of the Anti-Weaponization Fund, a $1.8 billion taxpayer-funded initiative. The order blocks the transfer of money to the fund, consideration of claims, and disbursement of funds while plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction is pending. Judge Brinkema scheduled a hearing for June 12 to hear further arguments on the case.
• Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump's $1.776 Billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from creating or operating a planned $1.776 billion "Anti-Weaponization Fund" designed to compensate individuals who claim they were wrongfully targeted by the government, potentially including those Trump pardoned for Jan. 6 involvement. The order prohibits consideration of submitted claims and disbursement of funds pending a June 12 hearing.

Supporting reports

• Department of Justice argued for unlimited presidential firing power — Karen Lesperance, a lawyer for the Department of Justice, told Judge Jesse Furman of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York that the government's position is that the President has the power to fire anyone, even if doing so for political reasons. The statement was made in the case of Maurene Comey, daughter of former FBI Director James Comey, who was fired from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York. When Judge Furman asked whether there were any limits to presidential firing power—such as whether the President could fire people to create an "all-white executive branch" or "all-Black" executive branch—Lesperance avoided answering the question. Comey's lawyer characterized the Justice Department's position as a "novel and breathtaking theory about the scope of" presidential power.

Supporting reports

• Department of Justice claims Pam Bondi subpoena void after her removal as Attorney General — The Department of Justice, through Assistant Attorney General Patrick Davis, informed House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer that former Attorney General Pam Bondi will not appear for a scheduled 14 April deposition regarding the DOJ's handling of the Epstein investigation and release of Epstein files. The DOJ argued the subpoena, issued in her official capacity, no longer obligates her to testify since she was ousted from office on 7 April. The committee has not withdrawn the subpoena; bipartisan members and Democratic leadership assert Bondi remains legally obligated to appear.
• DOJ blocks Pam Bondi deposition on Epstein files — The Department of Justice announced that former Attorney General Pam Bondi will not appear for her deposition before the House Oversight Committee on April 14th. The DOJ claimed she was subpoenaed in her capacity as AG and no longer holds that role. House Oversight Ranking Member Robert Garcia clarified that the subpoena is to Bondi as an individual, not to her title, and stated that contempt charges are on the table if she does not comply. This continues an ongoing cover-up of Epstein files by the administration.
• Pam Bondi cancels deposition on Epstein files handling — The Republican-led House Oversight and Reform Committee announced that former Attorney General Pam Bondi will no longer appear for a scheduled deposition to provide testimony about the Justice Department's handling of the Epstein files. Ranking Member Rep. Robert Garcia warned that if Bondi defies her subpoena, the committee "will begin contempt charges in the Congress."

Supporting reports

• DOJ established controlled in-person review system for congressional Epstein files access — The Department of Justice opened an in-person review facility in Washington on February 9, 2026, allowing members of Congress to search unredacted Epstein records under tight controls on access and note-taking. This was the sole mechanism established for congressional review of unredacted files following passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act in late 2025, which required DOJ to release unclassified Epstein-related records. The DOJ controlled all variables of the review process, including which files could be accessed, how searches were conducted, and what records were kept of congressional activity.
• DOJ tracked congressional searches in Epstein files review system — Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared at a House Judiciary Committee oversight hearing on February 11, 2026, carrying a printed document labeled "Jayapal Pramila Search History" that detailed Rep. Pramila Jayapal's searches within the DOJ's controlled, members-only review system for unredacted Epstein records. A Reuters photographer captured the document. The DOJ had established the in-person review system on February 9, 2026, as the sole mechanism for congressional access to unredacted Epstein files under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The revelation suggests the DOJ monitored lawmakers' investigative activity and used that intelligence during the oversight hearing itself.
• DOJ surveilled House member's access to Epstein files — During Attorney General Bondi's testimony before the House Judiciary Committee, a photograph captured by Reuters showed a page of Bondi's briefing book with a printout titled "Jayapal Pramila Search History," appearing to be files showing what Representative Pramila Jayapal accessed after the DOJ made some Epstein files available at DOJ offices. This represents executive branch surveillance of a legislative branch member's document access. Representative Jamie Raskin, top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, said he will ask for an investigation of this "outrageous abuse of power."
• Ranking Member Raskin requested DOJ Inspector General investigation into congressional surveillance — House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin formally requested that the DOJ Inspector General investigate the DOJ's apparent surveillance of lawmakers' searches in the Epstein files review system. Raskin stated he had "reason to believe that it was happening to everyone," not just Rep. Jayapal. He also called for the DOJ to immediately stop tracking member searches, open Epstein file review to senior congressional staff, and publicly release all remaining files with only survivor information properly redacted.
• Rep. Jayapal organized formal congressional letter demanding investigation into surveillance — Rep. Pramila Jayapal organized a formal congressional letter demanding an investigation into what she characterized as improper surveillance of Congress by the DOJ. Jayapal also raised the question of whether the DOJ's decision to open the Epstein files to congressional review two days early was intended to allow the DOJ to surveil members' searches and anticipate their questions for the oversight hearing.
• DOJ tracked congressional members' Epstein files research and displayed search records at hearing — During a House oversight hearing on Wednesday, US Attorney General Pam Bondi displayed a document titled "Jayapal Pramila Search History" showing which Epstein files Democratic Representative Pramila Jayapal had accessed. The DOJ confirmed it monitors all Epstein file searches by lawmakers on its systems. Congressional members, including Jamie Raskin and Jayapal, alleged the tracking violates separation of powers and constitutes surveillance designed to anticipate questions and gather intelligence on their investigative activities.
• DOJ surveilled Congress members' search history of Epstein files — Multiple members of Congress confirmed that the Department of Justice tracked and monitored which Epstein documents members of Congress searched, opened, and reviewed, including timestamps. Rep. Pramila Jayapal reported that AG Bondi presented her with a printed search history of her email searches. Rep. Nancy Mace confirmed the DOJ was tagging all documents searched by members and that timestamps were associated with the tracking. Speaker Mike Johnson stated he was investigating the allegations.
• DOJ monitored congressional search history in Epstein files review system — Attorney General Pam Bondi carried a printed document labeled "Jayapal Pramila Search History" into a House Judiciary oversight hearing, revealing that the Department of Justice had tracked which Epstein-related files Rep. Pramila Jayapal searched within DOJ's controlled, members-only review system. The executive branch collected intelligence on the legislative branch's investigation of the executive branch. Rep. Jamie Raskin called the practice Orwellian and requested a DOJ Inspector General investigation; Rep. Jayapal is organizing a congressional letter demanding answers.
• Racist video of Obamas posted on Trump's Truth Social account — A racist video depicting the Obamas as apes appeared on President Trump's official Truth Social account. The video was removed, but Trump refused to apologize and claimed a staffer posted it without review. The incident occurred on an official presidential account.

Supporting reports

• Justice Department appeals ICE protest-response injunction — The Department of Justice filed a notice of appeal challenging a federal court injunction issued on Friday that curtailed aggressive ICE and federal agency tactics against protesters, including restrictions on pepper spray, weapon display, and arrest of observers. The appeal signals the administration's intent to overturn limits on law enforcement conduct during immigration enforcement operations.

Supporting reports

• DOJ opens criminal investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell — The Trump administration's Department of Justice opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, rooted in his June 2025 Senate testimony about the Fed's headquarters renovation costs. Powell confirmed the subpoena on Sunday and characterized the investigation as part of a pressure campaign linked to the administration's frustration with the Fed's interest rate policy. Several Republican lawmakers, including Senator Thom Tillis, publicly opposed the investigation as an attack on Fed independence.
• DOJ Subpoenas Federal Reserve in Investigation — The Department of Justice has issued a subpoena to the Federal Reserve as part of an investigation into Fed Chair Jerome Powell. This investigation is reportedly linked to Powell's testimony before the Senate regarding the costs of the Fed's headquarters renovation. The DOJ's actions have sparked criticism from several Republican lawmakers, who view the investigation as an attempt to undermine the Federal Reserve's independence. Powell has confirmed the subpoena and described the investigation as part of a broader pressure campaign by the Trump administration.
• US Attorney's office in DC opened criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell — The US Attorney's office for the District of Columbia opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell regarding the central bank's renovation of its Washington headquarters and whether Powell made false statements to Congress about the project's scope. The inquiry, approved in November by Jeanine Pirro (a Trump ally appointed to run the office), includes analysis of Powell's public statements and examination of spending records. Powell acknowledged receipt of grand jury subpoenas.
• DOJ threatens Federal Reserve with criminal indictment over interest rate policy — Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell publicly stated that the Department of Justice threatened criminal charges against the Fed related to a multi-year renovation project of Federal Reserve office buildings. Powell characterized the threat as retaliation for the Fed's decision to set interest rates based on economic conditions rather than presidential preference, stating the threat was "a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of the President."

Supporting reports

• Senator Slotkin said she is under federal investigation — Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) said in an interview that federal prosecutors are investigating her for participating in a video with other Democratic lawmakers calling on military members to refuse illegal orders.
• DOJ threatens Federal Reserve with criminal indictment over interest rate policy — Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell publicly stated that the Department of Justice threatened criminal charges against the Fed related to a multi-year renovation project of Federal Reserve office buildings. Powell characterized the threat as retaliation for the Fed's decision to set interest rates based on economic conditions rather than presidential preference, stating the threat was "a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of the President."
• Federal investigation opened against Michigan senator Elissa Slotkin for video urging troops to refuse illegal orders — Michigan senator Elissa Slotkin announced she is under federal investigation by the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia for her participation in a video released in 2025 in which she and five other Democratic lawmakers with military backgrounds urged U.S. troops to refuse unlawful orders. The video's message aligns with established military law and constitutional principle. President Trump called the video "seditious behavior by traitors" punishable by death; the White House later clarified he did not seek execution but wanted them "held accountable." Slotkin characterized the investigation as weaponization of federal government to intimidate political opponents.
• Senator Elissa Slotkin faces federal criminal investigation for oath video — Senator Elissa Slotkin is now under federal criminal investigation for appearing in a video urging service members to remember their oath and refuse illegal orders. The investigation represents potential criminalization of speech encouraging military personnel to uphold constitutional obligations and refuse unlawful commands.
• Four additional Democratic lawmakers said they are under investigation — Four additional Democratic lawmakers said they are being investigated by the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia over their participation in a viral video calling on military members to refuse illegal orders.
• Trump DOJ investigates Democratic lawmakers over military video on illegal orders — Three House Democrats—Jason Crow (Colorado), Maggie Goodlander (New Hampshire), and Chrissy Houlahan (Pennsylvania)—confirmed that the U.S. Attorney's Office for D.C., led by Jeanine Pirro, requested interviews regarding their participation in a November video instructing troops they need not comply with illegal orders. The investigation expands to five lawmakers total; the Pentagon also formally censured Senator Mark Kelly and launched administrative proceedings. Trump called the video "seditious" and threatened capital punishment, later walking back but maintaining the lawmakers face "serious jeopardy."

Supporting reports

• ICE Director Todd Lyons threatened Minnesota sheriff over potential prosecution of agent Ross — ICE Director Todd Lyons appeared on Fox News and, when asked about the possibility of Minnesota state authorities prosecuting ICE agent Jonathan Ross for the fatal shooting of Renee Good, stated: "My message to the sheriff is: try and arrest my folks—let's see what happens." The statement constituted a direct threat against state law enforcement attempting to exercise jurisdiction over a federal agent.

Supporting reports

• ICE blocks three House members from detention facility visit despite prior judicial ruling — Three Democratic House members from Minnesota—Ilhan Omar, Angie Craig, and Kelly Morrison—were blocked from entering an ICE detention facility near Minneapolis on January 10, 2026, despite having notified the facility in advance. Although initially permitted entry, they were ejected approximately 10 minutes later. This action directly violated a federal judge's ruling from the previous month that the Trump administration cannot bar members of Congress from visiting immigrant detention facilities. Officials cited funding from the Big Beautiful Bill Act as justification for the denial.
• U.S. Representatives attempt entry to Minneapolis ICE facility — On the morning of Saturday, January 11, 2026, U.S. Representatives Ilhan Omar, Kelly Morrison, and Angie Craig attempted to enter a Minneapolis ICE facility. ICE unlawfully denied them entry, according to the representatives' subsequent accusations.
• Minnesota congressional delegation denied access to ICE detention facility — A contingent of Minnesota representatives, including Rep. Angie Craig, attempted to gain access to a local ICE detention facility and were turned away by a large group of ICE agents in full tactical gear. ICE officials told the representatives that because the facility was funded by the "Big Beautiful Bill" rather than the congressional appropriations act, they would not be allowed to enter. When Craig informed them they were violating the law, ICE officials responded that "they didn't care."

Supporting reports

• Federal judge rules on Halligan appointment legality in Comey case — A federal judge overseeing the consolidated unlawful-appointment claim in the Comey and James cases indicated he would rule before Thanksgiving on whether prosecutor Lindsey Halligan was lawfully appointed to her position as temporary U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. Comey and James argue that Trump and Attorney General Bondi circumvented vacancy laws to install Halligan, rendering her effectively a private citizen with no authority to prosecute on behalf of the United States. If the judge dismisses with prejudice, the DOJ would be barred from bringing the same charges in the future.
• Federal judge dismisses DOJ cases against Comey and James for unlawful appointment of prosecutor — On Monday (November 24), a federal judge dismissed without prejudice the DOJ's cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James after finding that Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi circumvented vacancy laws in appointing U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan. The judge ruled that Halligan was serving unlawfully when she sought indictments, making her the fourth Trump-appointed acting U.S. attorney determined to be illegitimate. Because the statute of limitations on charges against Comey had expired, the DOJ is unlikely to resurrect its case against him.
• Federal judge dismisses criminal cases against Comey and James, ruling interim prosecutor unlawfully appointed — Judge Cameron McGowan Currie of the Eastern District of Virginia threw out criminal cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James on November 24, 2025, ruling that interim US Attorney Lindsey Halligan—appointed by Trump in September—lacked lawful authority to prosecute them. Halligan's appointment violated federal law governing interim prosecutor tenure. The judge found the Trump administration's attempt to circumvent Senate confirmation rules unlawful and dismissed both indictments without prejudice, though Comey's statute of limitations has expired.
• Federal judge found Trump's appointment of Lindsey Halligan illegal — A federal judge found that Trump's appointment of Lindsey Halligan to the post of U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia was illegal and threw out the cases she had brought against former FBI director James Comey and New York attorney general Letitia James. The ruling invalidated prosecutions brought by an illegally appointed prosecutor.
• U.S. District Judge Currie dismisses indictments of Comey and James, ruling interim U.S. attorney appointment unlawful — A federal judge found that President Trump's appointment of Lindsey Halligan to the post of U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia was illegal and threw out the cases she had brought against former FBI director James Comey and New York attorney general Letitia James.
• Judge Cameron McGowan Currie dismissed indictments against James Comey and Letitia James — U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie of South Carolina dismissed indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, finding that President Trump's appointment of Lindsey Halligan as interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia violated both federal law and the Appointment Clause of the Constitution. Halligan, a former insurance lawyer and Trump aide, had obtained grand jury indictments against both officials after Trump removed interim U.S. attorney Erik Seibert for declining to prosecute them. Judge Currie ruled that Halligan's appointment circumvented Senate confirmation requirements and invalidated all prosecutorial actions undertaken by her.
• Federal judge dismisses criminal cases against Comey and James — Judge Cameron McGowan Currie of the Eastern District of Virginia dismissed indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James on the grounds that Lindsay Halligan was unlawfully appointed as Interim US Attorney. The court found that the 120-day appointment clock expired on May 21, 2025, making Halligan's service invalid since September 22, 2025. The dismissal was issued "without prejudice," allowing potential re-indictment by a lawfully appointed official. However, the statute of limitations has expired in Comey's case, effectively barring future prosecution.
• Trump attorney blames DOJ official for Comey indictment dismissal — A federal judge dismissed criminal cases against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James after ruling that prosecutor Lindsey Halligan was illegally appointed as interim US Attorney of Eastern Virginia. Attorney General Pam Bondi subsequently announced the Justice Department would appeal and pursue "all available legal action" to hold James and Comey "accountable."
• 11th Circuit Court upheld $1 million sanction against Trump and Alina Habba — Trump personal attorney David Schoen told Fox's Laura Ingraham that the dismissal of James Comey's indictment was the fault of DOJ official Pam Bondi, claiming the dismissal was "avoidable" and that DOJ should have had someone in the room with Lindsey Halligan. Schoen praised Bondi for showing "great courage" in obtaining the indictment despite being "left without support." Trump's former NSA Michael Flynn posted that Bondi should be fired and replaced by Sidney Powell, who previously claimed Hugo Chavez rigged the 2020 elections using Italian satellites.
• Federal appeals court affirms penalty against Trump and Habba — The conservative 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a $1 million sanction against Trump and his lawyer Alina Habba for their frivolous conspiracy-laden racketeering lawsuit targeting Hillary Clinton, the DNC, and former FBI Director James Comey. The court agreed that Trump has a "pattern" of filing meritless lawsuits and spoke bluntly about the abuse, with the appeals court imposing penalties of this size being rare.
• — A federal appeals court affirmed a nearly $1 million penalty against Trump and lawyer Alina Habba, finding their lawsuit against Hillary Clinton and former FBI Director James Comey was "sanctionable conduct." The court found many of their legal arguments "were indeed frivolous" and rejected Trump's effort to revive a 2022 lawsuit targeting his political enemies.

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• DOJ launches criminal investigation into Schiff's home purchase — Following President Trump's public order to Attorney General Bondi to target perceived enemies, the DOJ launched a criminal investigation into Senator Adam Schiff's purchase of a home in Maryland based on a criminal referral from FHFA Director Bill Pulte, who cited mortgage documents of unclear origins. The investigation was referred to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Maryland. However, federal prosecutors may have shifted to probing Martin's and Pulte's handling of the inquiry, according to NBC News reporting Thursday.

Supporting reports

• DOJ opens investigation into Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook — The DOJ opened a criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook based on a mortgage fraud referral from FHFA Director Bill Pulte. The investigation follows Trump's failed attempt to dismiss Cook from the Federal Reserve, a move aimed at seizing control of the U.S. central bank. Cook's attorney Abbe Lowell characterized Pulte's accusations as politically motivated and noted that Pulte has ignored reports indicating his family members and multiple senior Trump officials may have committed similar mortgage fraud infractions.
• Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook's lawyer disputed mortgage fraud allegations — A lawyer for Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Special Attorney for Mortgage Fraud Ed Martin, arguing that allegations made by Trump and Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte that Cook engaged in mortgage fraud "fail on even the most cursory look at the facts," and that alleged contradictions in her loan applications were "cherry-picked, incomplete snippets."

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• 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.

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• Texas senator requests FBI assistance to locate and arrest Democratic state lawmakers who left state — U.S. Senator John Cornyn of Texas requested that FBI Director Kash Patel assist Texas law enforcement in locating and arresting Democratic state legislators who departed the state to prevent a quorum on redistricting votes. The request escalates a confrontation between Texas Republicans (backed by Trump) seeking aggressive congressional redistricting and Democratic lawmakers who fled to Illinois. Governor Greg Abbott filed an emergency petition to remove state representative Gene Wu from office, and state troopers were ordered to arrest and return absent members. The FBI declined to comment on the request.
• Senator John Cornyn requests FBI arrest of Democratic legislators — Republican Senator John Cornyn of Texas asked the FBI to find and arrest the Democratic legislators who left the state to break quorum on the redistricting vote. Trump told reporters the FBI might have to get involved. The request represents a significant overreach of federal power to enforce state legislative quorum requirements.
• Senator Cornyn claims FBI agreed to assist in locating Texas Democratic lawmakers — Senator John Cornyn claimed the FBI had agreed to help locate Texas Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to block a Republican-backed gerrymandered congressional map. Democrats condemned the claim as authoritarian overreach and weaponization of federal law enforcement. The FBI declined to comment; an administration official and federal law enforcement source told NBC News the government did not plan to arrest the lawmakers and had not assisted in locating them. No lawmakers have been charged with a crime.
• Sen. John Cornyn requested FBI assistance to locate Texas House Democrats who fled the state — Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) issued a statement that Kash Patel, head of the FBI, approved his request for the FBI to assist state and local law enforcement in locating House Democrats who left Texas to avoid a legislative session. Cornyn characterized the absent legislators as "rogue" and stated they cannot avoid their constitutional responsibilities. Legal experts questioned the legal basis for FBI involvement in locating state legislators.

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• US Supreme Court allows deportation of eight men to South Sudan without torture-risk review — The US Supreme Court issued an order on Thursday allowing the Trump administration to deport eight men held at Camp Lemonnier (a US military base in Djibouti) to South Sudan, reversing a district judge's ruling that required immigrants facing third-country deportation to first demonstrate reasonable fear of torture, persecution, or death. Most men are from Vietnam, South Korea, Mexico, Laos, Cuba, and Myanmar—only one from South Sudan. The conservative majority's decision follows a prior ruling permitting rapid deportations to unconnected countries without such protections.
• US judge clears path for deportation of eight immigrants to South Sudan — A US district judge in Boston denied emergency requests by eight immigrants to halt their deportation to South Sudan, clearing the way for their transfer after the Supreme Court clarified that the judge could no longer block the action. The men, convicted of serious crimes and from countries including Vietnam, South Korea, Mexico, Laos, Cuba, and Myanmar, were scheduled to be flown to South Sudan on Friday evening. The case represents the latest round in litigation over the Trump administration's campaign to deter immigration through high-profile deportations to countries where migrants report safety concerns.

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• FBI arrests Wisconsin judge Hannah Dugan on obstruction allegations related to immigration enforcement — The FBI arrested Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan on Friday, April 18, 2025, alleging she obstructed federal immigration officers attempting to arrest a defendant in her courtroom. According to the criminal complaint, Dugan directed the defendant and his attorney to a private exit to evade the arrest team. FBI Director Kash Patel posted a photograph of Dugan in handcuffs on social media. Republicans called for her removal; Democrats condemned the arrest as an attack on judicial independence and weaponization of federal law enforcement by the Trump administration.
• FBI Director Kash Patel posts photograph of arrested judge on social media — FBI Director Kash Patel posted a photograph of Judge Hannah Dugan in handcuffs on Twitter/X on Friday night with the caption "No one is above the law." The post served as a public signal that the Trump administration welcomed a political confrontation over the judge's arrest and framed the arrest as enforcement of equal accountability.

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• Trump administration orders mass layoffs at Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — The Trump administration, through staff from Elon Musk's "Department of Government Efficiency," issued reduction-in-force letters terminating approximately 1,500 of the CFPB's 1,700 employees on April 17. The layoffs eliminated entire divisions including the office of servicemember affairs, office of older Americans, and office of fair lending. According to an employee declaration, the effort was managed by Gavin Kliger and staff were kept working 36 hours straight to ensure notices went out. Employees raised concerns about violations of court orders requiring "particularized assessment," but were told "all that mattered was the numbers."
• Federal judge bars Trump administration from rapid deportation policy — Federal Judge Brian Murphy on Friday barred the Trump administration from implementing a new policy that would allow it to rapidly deport hundreds or thousands of immigrants to countries other than their own without giving them an opportunity to demonstrate they face persecution, torture, or death. The ruling blocks a policy that would circumvent due process protections for asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants.
• Federal judge blocks mass layoffs at Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — Judge Amy Berman Jackson issued a ruling blocking the Trump administration's termination of approximately 1,500 of the CFPB's 1,700 employees, announced on Thursday via reduction-in-force letters. The layoffs, orchestrated by staff from Elon Musk's "Department of Government Efficiency," eliminated entire divisions including servicemember affairs, older Americans, and fair lending offices. The judge's order came after a federal appeals court had modified (but not eliminated) an earlier injunction limiting the agency's ability to terminate staff. The administration's compliance with the ruling remains unclear.

Supporting reports

• Federal judge finds probable cause for contempt charges against Trump officials over Alien Enemies Act deportations — Chief US District Judge James Boasberg issued a 46-page opinion finding probable cause to hold Trump administration officials in criminal contempt for violating his temporary injunction blocking deportations under the Alien Enemies Act. The administration failed to recall deportation flights that had already departed, claiming the verbal order was not binding and that planes outside US airspace were beyond judicial jurisdiction. Boasberg rejected these defenses, warned of appointing an independent prosecutor if the White House stonewalled contempt proceedings, and ordered officials to either return the deported individuals or face contempt charges.
• Federal judge finds Trump administration in criminal contempt for defying court order — U.S. District Judge James Boasberg issued an opinion finding that the Trump administration's "hurried removal" of men to El Salvador after Boasberg had issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) prohibiting such removal demonstrated "a wilful disregard for its Order, sufficient for the Court to conclude that probable cause exists to find the Government in criminal contempt." Boasberg quoted Chief Justice John Marshall, stating the Constitution does not tolerate willful disobedience of judicial orders by coordinate branches. Boasberg indicated he will use declarations, hearings, or depositions to identify responsible individuals, and if the government refuses to prosecute, he will appoint a private prosecutor.
• Appeal filed — J.G.G. v. Trump (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00766 — Judge Boasberg issued an order holding that there's probable cause to find the Defendants acted with criminal contempt in violating his orders. He offered the government to stave off a criminal referral by “purging” the contempt. He wrote, “The most obvious way for Defendants to do so here is by asserting custody of the individuals who were removed in violation of the Court's classwide TRO so that they might avail themselves of their right to challenge their removability through a habeas proceeding.” The defendants appealed his decision to the D.C.Circuit. On the same day, the Plaintiffs submitted a new motion for a TRO asking the court to direct the government to provide 30 days' notice before seeking to remove any class member under the AEA. The Plaintiffs also stated that they intend to amend their complaint “to reinstate their habeas claim on behalf of class members detained in CECOT and to seek the return of these Plaintiffs to the United States.”
• Judge Issues Contempt Ruling Against Trump Administration — U.S. District Judge James Boasberg ruled that the Trump administration's removal of detainees to El Salvador, despite a temporary restraining order, demonstrated willful disregard for judicial authority. The judge indicated that if the government does not rectify its contempt, he would pursue prosecution against those responsible for ignoring the court's order.
• Judge Boasberg issues 46-page opinion finding probable cause of criminal contempt — U.S. District Judge James Boasberg issued a scathing 46-page opinion finding probable cause that Trump administration officials acted in criminal contempt of his order to recall deportation flights containing alleged Venezuelan gang members. The opinion represents a judicial escalation in response to the administration's apparent willingness to violate court orders and test the limits of the legal system.
• Case update — J.G.G. v. Trump (D.D.C.) 1:25-cv-00766 — The D.C. Circuit, in a 2-1 decision, issued an administrative stay in the appeal from Judge Boasberg's April 16 contempt-related order.

Supporting reports

• Court Orders Return of Deportee Amid Legal Controversy — U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ordered the government to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a legal U.S. resident who was deported due to an "administrative error." The administration filed an emergency motion to appeal the order, despite the judge's ruling that the deportation was unlawful and a violation of constitutional rights.
• Trump administration filed emergency motion to block return order for Abrego Garcia — Following U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis's order that the government return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States by 11:59 p.m. on April 7, the Trump administration immediately filed an emergency motion to stop the order while it appeals her decision. The motion sought to prevent compliance with the judge's ruling that the deportation was unlawful.
• U.S. District Judge Xinis ordered government to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia from El Salvador — U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis ordered the Trump administration to bring Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to the United States no later than 11:59 p.m. on April 7. Abrego Garcia was in the United States legally, is married to a U.S. citizen, and is the father of a U.S. citizen. In 2019, a court barred the government from deporting him to El Salvador. On March 31, an ICE official told the court under oath that Abrego Garcia had been arrested and deported to prison in El Salvador because of an "administrative error." The government claimed it could not retrieve him because he is no longer in U.S. jurisdiction. In her April 7 opinion, Judge Xinis stated that "there were no legal grounds whatsoever for his arrest, detention, or removal" and that his detention "appears wholly lawless" and constitutes "a clear constitutional violation." She criticized administration officials for asserting "they can forcibly remove any person—migrant and U.S. citizen alike—to prisons outside the United States, and then baldly assert they have no way to effectuate return because they are no longer the 'custodian.'"
• Judge Paula Xinis orders daily compliance updates and depositions after Trump administration ignores court orders on wrongful deportation case — US District Judge Paula Xinis ordered the Trump administration to provide daily updates on efforts to comply with her April 10 order to facilitate the return of Kilmar Ábrego García, who was wrongly deported to El Salvador. After the government made clear it was doing nothing to comply, Xinis ordered government officials to respond to written questions and sit for depositions. Lawyers reported on Tuesday that the government was ignoring that order as well. The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals denied the administration's request to halt Xinis's rulings.
• Federal judge ordered government to file status update on Abrego Garcia by 9:30 a.m. — U.S. District Court Judge Paula Xinis ordered the government to file an update by 9:30 a.m. on April 11 explaining where Kilmar Abrego Garcia is, what the government is doing to get him back, and what additional steps it will take. She scheduled an in-person hearing for 1:00 p.m. The government responded that the judge had not given them enough time to answer and suggested it would delay, citing the Supreme Court's instruction that the judge show deference to the president's foreign affairs authority.
• Government attorney stated lack of knowledge about Abrego Garcia's location and no action taken — At the 1:00 p.m. hearing before Judge Paula Xinis, the government's attorney, Drew Ensign, stated that he did not have information about where Kilmar Abrego Garcia is and that the government had done nothing to get him back. Ensign said he might have answers by the following Tuesday. Judge Xinis ordered the government to provide an update by the next day. The government's filing at 12:15 p.m. had claimed Abrego Garcia is "in the custody of a foreign sovereign," but the attorney's testimony contradicted any claim of active efforts to secure his return.
• Government fails to comply with court order regarding Abrego Garcia — Following the Supreme Court's order, the government failed to provide information about Kilmar Abrego Garcia's whereabouts and did not take steps to facilitate his return, raising concerns about compliance with judicial directives.
• Government lawyer claims lack of information and ignores court order — On April 11, 2025, the lawyer representing the government, Drew Ensign, told the court that he did not have information about where Kilmar Abrego Garcia is located and ignored Judge Xinis's order to provide information about what steps the government was taking to bring him back. This non-compliance occurred despite the Supreme Court's April 10 decision requiring the government to facilitate his release and to share information about steps taken.
• Trump administration defies court order on wrongly deported Maryland resident — A federal judge in Maryland admonished Trump administration lawyers for failing to comply with a court order requiring details on the whereabouts and status of Kilmar Ábrego García, a Maryland resident with a valid US work permit who was wrongly deported to El Salvador on March 15. The US Supreme Court had upheld the judge's order for his return, but the administration claimed it needed more time and that foreign affairs considerations made compliance impracticable. The judge demanded daily updates and expressed frustration at the government's lack of concrete action.

Supporting reports

• Department of Justice attempts to remove Judge Beryl Howell from case; judge rebukes strategy as attack on judicial integrity — After Judge Beryl Howell issued a decision in March temporarily blocking Trump from penalizing the law firm Perkins Coie, the Department of Justice, in a rare move, attempted to have Howell removed from the case, alleging bias. Judge Howell issued a blistering response, writing: "This strategy is designed to impugn the integrity of the federal judicial system and blame any loss on the decision-maker rather than fallacies in the substantive legal arguments presented."

Supporting reports

• US Department of Justice drops corruption case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams — US District Judge Dale Ho dismissed the Department of Justice's corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams on April 2, 2025, with prejudice (meaning charges cannot be refiled). The dismissal followed weeks of controversy over the Trump administration pressuring prosecutors to drop charges in apparent exchange for Adams' cooperation on immigration enforcement. Judge Ho noted the arrangement "smacks of a bargain" and violated prosecutorial independence norms. Senior prosecutors had resigned rather than comply with orders to dismiss the case.
• DOJ dismisses corruption case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams — At the request of Trump's Justice Department, a federal judge on April 2 dismissed the corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams with prejudice, meaning the charges cannot be brought against him again. The judge wrote that "everything here smacks of a bargain: dismissal of the indictment in exchange for immigration policy concessions."
• Federal agents arrest Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan — In April 2025, federal agents arrested Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan, alleging she "intentionally misdirected" federal agents away from a Mexican immigrant appearing in state court. FBI Director Kash Patel personally announced Dugan's arrest before an affidavit had been filed. After the arrest, Attorney General Pam Bondi stated the Trump administration was "sending a very strong message" to judges who "think they are beyond and above the law."

Supporting reports

• Trump DOJ fires prosecutors involved in investigations against him — The Department of Justice, under Acting Attorney General McHenry, terminated several career prosecutors who were involved in investigations of former President Trump. This action is framed as part of an effort to end the "weaponization of government" and aligns with Trump's agenda. The firings raise concerns about the independence of the DOJ and its role in upholding the rule of law.
• Trump administration fires DOJ lawyers in criminal cases — The Trump administration fired more than a dozen DOJ lawyers involved in two criminal cases against the president. This action raises concerns about the independence of the Justice Department and potential interference in legal proceedings.
• Trump justice department fires officials linked to Jack Smith — On January 27, 2025, Acting Attorney General James McHenry fired over a dozen federal prosecutors who had worked on criminal cases against Donald Trump. These prosecutors were part of Special Counsel Jack Smith's team, which had charged Trump in two cases related to mishandling classified documents and attempting to overturn the 2020 election results. The firings were justified by McHenry as necessary because the prosecutors could not be trusted to implement the president's agenda. This move is part of broader personnel changes within the Justice Department under the Trump administration.
• Trump fires federal prosecutors involved in his prosecutions — On January 27, Trump’s acting attorney general fired more than a dozen federal prosecutors who were involved in the criminal prosecutions against Trump. The official stated that the acting attorney general “does not trust these officials to assist in faithfully implementing the President’s agenda.”
• White House directed firing of special counsel prosecutors — The Justice Department, following instructions from the White House, fired more than a dozen federal prosecutors involved in criminal prosecutions against Donald Trump. The firings were directed by the acting Attorney General, James McHenry, and were linked to a memo from the White House personnel office. This action has raised concerns about the independence of the Justice Department and its potential use as an extension of the White House. The prosecutors were dismissed due to their roles in prosecuting Trump, which was seen as incompatible with the president's agenda.